Please be so kind as to answer the following questions:
1. What is your favourite colour in our sling range?
2. What sort of products would you like to see more of?
Then, send in your entries in to info@mighty-mama.com
I will do a draw on my birthday, March 7th and the winning mail will win a ‘Breast is Best’ nursing top and a flexi hat in our new summer colour – grape.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
COMPETITION TIME!!!
Saturday, November 29, 2008
BUDDHA CARRY—4 MONTHS TO 1 YEAR
The Kangaroo/Buddha position is a favourite for babies at the peak of squirminess (think 9 month old crawlers) because a baby facing outwards is a baby enthralled with the world.
Hold the pouch open as if you were going to put baby in lying down, but instead cross baby’s legs in front of his body and place baby in a sitting position facing out.
Take care that baby is in a pocket with the inner edge of the sling between your tummy and his back.
While supporting baby’s weight, tighten the sling by pulling the tail.
You may want to tighten the outer rail to keep baby secure. Do this by pulling the edge of the tail on the inner side, just below the rings.
HIP CARRY—6 MONTHS TO 3 YEARSThis will quickly become your favourite position for an older baby, it can be used as soon as your baby can sit up. It mimics the natural carrying position yet alleviates strain on your arms.
An older child can also breastfeed in this position.
This position is the one you will use if you have an Out and About sling (see photo of O&A Sling below)
Begin by holding baby over the opposite shoulder to the rings. Place your baby’s body in the sling, pull the sling body fabric over the baby’s bottom as you thread his legs through the sling.
Hold the sling body and baby with one arm, get a good grip on your rings, and scoot the baby and sling so that the baby rests just above and over your hip. Use the baby’s bottom as a handle (not his shoulders)
The child’s bottom must be firmly seated in the sling and there should be enough fabric on the baby’s back to hold the child in place if he tips away from your body a bit.
The baby’s knees must be higher than her rump, fabric spread as close to her armpits and knees as possible.
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Your child’s legs will straddle the side of your body. Generally, the heavier the baby, the higher above the hip bone she rests.
Washing your Mighty Mama Sling…
Hand wash in cool water and hang to dry. Don’t tumble dry your sling. Will soften and grow more comfy with each wash!
Disclaimer: It is your responsibility to exercise caution when wearing your sling and to inspect it from time to time for wear and tear. Mighty Mama will not be held liable for any injury resulting from the use of a Mighty Mama sling.
How to wear your sling and grow to love it !
Open the pouch with one hand while holding baby in the other arm.
Using the Mighty Mama sling is very easy but it does require a little practice and patience at first. Just like breastfeeding, once you get the hang of it using your sling will become second nature!
Putting on your sling..
You can wear your MM Sling on either shoulder so first decide which side you prefer. Wear your rings in the corsage position in the hollow under the front of your shoulder. Make sure the shoulder pad is flat and the sling cups your shoulder.
It is important for your comfort that you have the sling spread across your shoulder and wide across your back. This way your weight is distributed evenly and the sling won’t dig into your neck.
It is important for your comfort that you have the sling spread across your shoulder and wide across your back. This way your weight is distributed evenly and the sling won’t dig into your neck.
You can adjust your MM sling by pulling the tail through the rings; the longer the tail is the smaller the pouch will be and vice versa…
If your baby doesn’t seem to have enough back support from the railings and needs quick adjusting, try pulling the shoulder pad so it sits on the cap of your shoulder. This will automatically pull baby closer and make him sit more comfortably.
To take your sling off, pull the top ring up and away from your body, thereby loosening the sling enough to get baby out whilst maintaining your customised fit.
To take your sling off, pull the top ring up and away from your body, thereby loosening the sling enough to get baby out whilst maintaining your customised fit.
CRADLE HOLD — NEWBORN to 5 MONTHS
We strongly recommend using a folded multi mat under baby’s head, neck and shoulders for the first 5-6 weeks. This will bring baby up in the sling, support him, and help him not get lost in the deep pocket!
When you place your newborn in the sling, support the baby’s head until the sling has been tightened enough to provide sufficient support.
Begin by pulling up the inner side of the sling against your chest to create a deep, secure pouch.
We strongly recommend using a folded multi mat under baby’s head, neck and shoulders for the first 5-6 weeks. This will bring baby up in the sling, support him, and help him not get lost in the deep pocket!
When you place your newborn in the sling, support the baby’s head until the sling has been tightened enough to provide sufficient support.
Begin by pulling up the inner side of the sling against your chest to create a deep, secure pouch.
Open the pouch with one hand while holding baby in the other arm. Cradle baby in your arms with baby’s head near the sling’s rings and slide her into the pouch gently, making sure the head rests just below the rings. Body should be resting towards the outside edge of the sling.
Adjust rails so inside rail is high and outside rail is high and tight, not slack.
You can do this by pulling the outside of the tail, just below the rings to tighten the inner edge or rail of pouch, and pull the inside of the tail to tighten the outer edge or rail. It may be a bit stiff at first to get the batting through the rings but with regular use and a wash, that will go smoothly
Pull your baby up as close as is comfortable.
Very young babies can look a bit squished in a sling—generally though, babies love this closeness and security. Combined with your movement, the correctly tightened sling creates a womb like environment for baby.
In any of the baby wearing positions, your baby should rest just where he/she would be if you were holding him/her in your arms. This is best accomplished by tightening up the sling as snugly as is comfortable as soon as the baby is positioned within it.
NURSING YOUR BABY IN THE SLING
Like riding a bicycle, breastfeeding in the sling can be challenging at first, but it will soon become second nature. Being able to walk around while meeting baby’s need to nurse gives a new mom tremendous freedom.
When first learning to breastfeed in the sling, it can be helpful to start out in a seated position. Put the sling on and loosen it, slide the baby in the loosened sling and latch baby on. Gently tighten the sling to support her back and head and adjust the railings so they sit snugly around her body. Adjust the sling — baby’s bottom should be about level with your waist.
Baby can have her head on either side of the sling, nestled in under the rings or cuddled in on the open side of the sling.
When baby’s head faces away from rings (see photo) her body should lie across the width of the sling, with her head near the outer rail and feet near you. This allows the baby's body to stretch out more, keeps the outer rail from flopping over the baby's face, and makes it easier to tighten the sling properly without completely altering the baby's position.
With the baby nursing in the snug sling, you can get up and walk around!
If you your baby falls asleep in the sling and you would like to put him down, it is best to do so by keeping baby in the sling and lying him on the bed by leaning over the bed yourself.
Then gently back out of the sling and bring it over your head as soon as the baby is positioned within it.
TUMMY TO TUMMY—NEWBORN TO 6 MONTHS
Some babies prefer to be held upright rather than lying down, this is especially true of colicky or reflux babies.
This is also a great position for visual contact with your baby and promotes a strong bond!
Begin by holding baby over your shoulder as if you were going to burp him. Slide baby down and open the sling with your other hand forming a pouch. While supporting baby’s weight tighten the sling by pulling on the tail.
Make sure the lower edge of the sling is behind baby’s knees. Tighten top and bottom rails, making sure bottom rail is well under the baby for safety.
Tighten fabric across baby’s back. For a younger baby, pull it right up behind her shoulders and neck and tuck her arms inside the sling too.
Position top rail behind baby’s neck and head for support and tighten side rail. Baby’s head should rest sideways on your chest. (Your heartbeat will be soothing and calming.)
For more information on wearing your baby correctly, please visit www.thebabywearer.com
You can do this by pulling the outside of the tail, just below the rings to tighten the inner edge or rail of pouch, and pull the inside of the tail to tighten the outer edge or rail. It may be a bit stiff at first to get the batting through the rings but with regular use and a wash, that will go smoothly
Pull your baby up as close as is comfortable.
Very young babies can look a bit squished in a sling—generally though, babies love this closeness and security. Combined with your movement, the correctly tightened sling creates a womb like environment for baby.
In any of the baby wearing positions, your baby should rest just where he/she would be if you were holding him/her in your arms. This is best accomplished by tightening up the sling as snugly as is comfortable as soon as the baby is positioned within it.
NURSING YOUR BABY IN THE SLING
Like riding a bicycle, breastfeeding in the sling can be challenging at first, but it will soon become second nature. Being able to walk around while meeting baby’s need to nurse gives a new mom tremendous freedom.
When first learning to breastfeed in the sling, it can be helpful to start out in a seated position. Put the sling on and loosen it, slide the baby in the loosened sling and latch baby on. Gently tighten the sling to support her back and head and adjust the railings so they sit snugly around her body. Adjust the sling — baby’s bottom should be about level with your waist.
Baby can have her head on either side of the sling, nestled in under the rings or cuddled in on the open side of the sling.
When baby’s head faces away from rings (see photo) her body should lie across the width of the sling, with her head near the outer rail and feet near you. This allows the baby's body to stretch out more, keeps the outer rail from flopping over the baby's face, and makes it easier to tighten the sling properly without completely altering the baby's position.
With the baby nursing in the snug sling, you can get up and walk around!
If you your baby falls asleep in the sling and you would like to put him down, it is best to do so by keeping baby in the sling and lying him on the bed by leaning over the bed yourself.
Then gently back out of the sling and bring it over your head as soon as the baby is positioned within it.
TUMMY TO TUMMY—NEWBORN TO 6 MONTHS
Some babies prefer to be held upright rather than lying down, this is especially true of colicky or reflux babies.
This is also a great position for visual contact with your baby and promotes a strong bond!
Begin by holding baby over your shoulder as if you were going to burp him. Slide baby down and open the sling with your other hand forming a pouch. While supporting baby’s weight tighten the sling by pulling on the tail.
Make sure the lower edge of the sling is behind baby’s knees. Tighten top and bottom rails, making sure bottom rail is well under the baby for safety.
Tighten fabric across baby’s back. For a younger baby, pull it right up behind her shoulders and neck and tuck her arms inside the sling too.
Position top rail behind baby’s neck and head for support and tighten side rail. Baby’s head should rest sideways on your chest. (Your heartbeat will be soothing and calming.)
For more information on wearing your baby correctly, please visit www.thebabywearer.com
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Great New Products at Mighty Mama!!
For the last few months I have been working on a line of baby clothes to go with the other Mighty Mama products. Decided to keep it simple and classic in design and to just start off with a top/pants for the boys, sundress for girls and a very cute reversible romper dress with puffy pants. They are made from the same beautiful cotton fabric we use for our slings and dyed in the same earthy colours. They come in two sizes and five different colours and are (if I may say so myself) very funky and yet practical – every moms dream! The overall response has been great and I thought I’d share some photos with you.. For more info and prices please contact me directly as they are not featured on the website yet.
Friday, August 29, 2008
NEW!!! Amber Teething Necklace for Baby
We are very excited to introduce this new product at Mighty Mama!! Baltic Amber has long been known for its healing properties. Wearing Baltic amber close to the skin is a traditional European remedy for baby teething. A natural analgesic, amber will help calm a baby without the use of over the counter drugs and remedies. Made from fossilised tree resin, leave the teething necklace in the sunshine to warm up and increase the natural analgesic power. Each teething bead is individually knotted and the necklace fastens with a screw clasp.
Only natural 100% authentic Baltic amber is used to make our teething necklaces.
Some interesting facts about Baltic Amber:
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
The Mighty Mama TLC Sling
Over the past year, we have researched and perfected the earthy, soft and comfy Mighty Mama sling. Our own kids practically grew up in them! Our vision was to create a sling that was safe and practical and yet attractive and unique. Here you have it …
THE MIGHTY MAMA T.L.C. SLING
They are easy to use – there are no buckles or straps and you can slip your baby in and out in seconds.
Our slings are lovingly handmade out of 100% lightweight cotton, dyed with non-toxic dyes, soft on babies skin and yet strong and durable.
Light padding on the shoulder and in the railings means added comfort but no excess bulk.
Our slings are lovingly handmade out of 100% lightweight cotton, dyed with non-toxic dyes, soft on babies skin and yet strong and durable.
Light padding on the shoulder and in the railings means added comfort but no excess bulk.
Easy to fold up and pack away, much more user friendly than bulky strollers!
Can be used from birth to toddler stage and allows for your child to be carried in a variety of positions.
Can be used from birth to toddler stage and allows for your child to be carried in a variety of positions.
Easy to care for, machine wash and hang up to dry.
Comes in a variety of sizes and is fully adjustable; one size fits most – dads and close friends and family get a go too!
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Wearing Down to Sleep
Its 9:00 Pm and you’re tired but baby isn’t. Nestle baby in the sling and stroll around the house until he falls asleep. This is what we call wearing down.
First time parents may have been led to believe that the way a baby goes to sleep is that at some preassigned time they put the half-awake baby into the crib, kiss him on the cheek, turn out the lights and leave the room. Baby peacefully drifts off to sleep without much bother. This happens only in books and movies, or for everybody else’s baby but seldom in real life. Most babies want to or need to be nursed (comforted) down to sleep in a caregiver’s arms. Babywearing allows the infant to make the transition from an awake state to sleep more easily. When you feel that baby is ready to go to sleep, or you are ready for her to go to sleep, wear her in the sling in the position that you have found to be the least stimulating and most sleep inducing. Walk around the house.
Try breastfeeding while moving. When your baby is in a state of deep sleep (recognized by a motionless face and limp limbs), lower yourself onto the bed until she is lying down and you can gently slip yourself out of the sling. Allow baby to remain on the bed in the sling, using it as a cover. If baby sleeps best on her side, tuck the sling between baby and bed to keep her from rolling over. Although asleep, baby may still seem restless while you are wearing her down (this is called REM – or rapid eye movement – sleep, a lighter state of sleep in which baby is likely to awaken if you put her down and try to sneak out of the room). If this happens, keep your baby in the snuggle hold and lie down with her on your chest while she is still in the sling. The rhythm of your heartbeat and breathing motion will lull baby into a deep sleep, after which you can roll over and slip yourself out of the sling, and your baby will usually stay asleep.
Wearing down is particularly useful for the reluctant napper. Sometimes it helps to leave baby in the snuggle hold on your chest so you can both drift off to sleep together. This can be done during naptime on the floor, the couch, or anyplace where baby and babywearer can comfortably get an hour’s sleep.
From The Baby Book
By Dr William & Martha Sears
First time parents may have been led to believe that the way a baby goes to sleep is that at some preassigned time they put the half-awake baby into the crib, kiss him on the cheek, turn out the lights and leave the room. Baby peacefully drifts off to sleep without much bother. This happens only in books and movies, or for everybody else’s baby but seldom in real life. Most babies want to or need to be nursed (comforted) down to sleep in a caregiver’s arms. Babywearing allows the infant to make the transition from an awake state to sleep more easily. When you feel that baby is ready to go to sleep, or you are ready for her to go to sleep, wear her in the sling in the position that you have found to be the least stimulating and most sleep inducing. Walk around the house.
Try breastfeeding while moving. When your baby is in a state of deep sleep (recognized by a motionless face and limp limbs), lower yourself onto the bed until she is lying down and you can gently slip yourself out of the sling. Allow baby to remain on the bed in the sling, using it as a cover. If baby sleeps best on her side, tuck the sling between baby and bed to keep her from rolling over. Although asleep, baby may still seem restless while you are wearing her down (this is called REM – or rapid eye movement – sleep, a lighter state of sleep in which baby is likely to awaken if you put her down and try to sneak out of the room). If this happens, keep your baby in the snuggle hold and lie down with her on your chest while she is still in the sling. The rhythm of your heartbeat and breathing motion will lull baby into a deep sleep, after which you can roll over and slip yourself out of the sling, and your baby will usually stay asleep.
Wearing down is particularly useful for the reluctant napper. Sometimes it helps to leave baby in the snuggle hold on your chest so you can both drift off to sleep together. This can be done during naptime on the floor, the couch, or anyplace where baby and babywearer can comfortably get an hour’s sleep.
From The Baby Book
By Dr William & Martha Sears
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
On The Go With Your Breastfed Baby - Using a Sling to Nurse Discreetly
Breastfed babies travel so easily. There is no need to bring much along when all your baby needs for food and comfort is YOU. Since it is possible to nurse inconspicuously almost everywhere, you can feel comfortable bringing your baby along.
Most mothers find that wearing a two piece outfit is easiest for nursing away from home. By lifting up your top it can then partially drape over your baby so no skin is exposed. Since baby is positioned tummy to tummy with you it looks as though you are just holding your baby calmly. I have had many strangers walk up to look at my baby, only to realize as they were inches away from his face, that he was nursing! Some mothers prefer to place a blanket over their shoulder and their baby's head once they get baby latched on. Sometimes this method tends to draw attention to the mother though since others "know" what the baby is doing under that blanket!
There are nursing fashions out there for the breastfeeding mother in various stores and mail-order catalogs. The slits are made into the fabric for a concealed opening. Some mothers do find this helpful in nursing discreetly, but before you invest a lot of money into nursing clothes practice with the clothes you have. I have found it helpful to have a couple dresses so I could nurse in church without going to the bathroom and undressing! But I didn't want to spend the money for shirts when I could just lift the bottom of the regular shirts I had. Also I find it harder to keep my skin from becoming exposed when I am trying to latch my baby through a small slit. I would encourage you to borrow some nursing clothes first to see if they are something you feel comfortable with before investing a lot of money.
The best thing I've found for mothers and babies on the go is a baby sling. A mother can nurse her baby in the sling and pull the sling fabric up so that the baby is covered. Not only is the baby nursing comfortably and discreetly but you can still keep moving. Many times I am out with all three of my children and my little one needs to nurse. Since she is already on my hip in the sling, I just lay her down, latch her on, make sure the sling is up around her, and keep on shopping! A sling helps to make breastfeeding even more convenient. We slow down only enough to get latched on. Sometimes we stop to take a break and nurse, but it is nice knowing that it doesn't have to stop us, especially if the older boys are on the run!
No matter how you choose to breastfeed discreetly, it can be done. Mothers have breastfed everywhere; shopping centers, parks, libraries, restaurants. Other people around you would rather have a nursing baby then a crying one; and so would you! Meeting your baby's needs should come first and breastfeeding helps you to do it quickly and easily no matter where you are.
Debi Mitchell is the mother of three (currently 5 years, 3 years and 8 months) who volunteers time helping breastfeeding mothers. Her husband is in the Air Force, so she and her family move frequently! Her middle child has Down Syndrome and she likes to do research in that field. Debi homeschools her children and is devoted to attachment parenting. She has just started a home business selling slings. To find out more about slings, or to purchase one visit Debi's web site at www.slingbaby.com
Most mothers find that wearing a two piece outfit is easiest for nursing away from home. By lifting up your top it can then partially drape over your baby so no skin is exposed. Since baby is positioned tummy to tummy with you it looks as though you are just holding your baby calmly. I have had many strangers walk up to look at my baby, only to realize as they were inches away from his face, that he was nursing! Some mothers prefer to place a blanket over their shoulder and their baby's head once they get baby latched on. Sometimes this method tends to draw attention to the mother though since others "know" what the baby is doing under that blanket!
There are nursing fashions out there for the breastfeeding mother in various stores and mail-order catalogs. The slits are made into the fabric for a concealed opening. Some mothers do find this helpful in nursing discreetly, but before you invest a lot of money into nursing clothes practice with the clothes you have. I have found it helpful to have a couple dresses so I could nurse in church without going to the bathroom and undressing! But I didn't want to spend the money for shirts when I could just lift the bottom of the regular shirts I had. Also I find it harder to keep my skin from becoming exposed when I am trying to latch my baby through a small slit. I would encourage you to borrow some nursing clothes first to see if they are something you feel comfortable with before investing a lot of money.
The best thing I've found for mothers and babies on the go is a baby sling. A mother can nurse her baby in the sling and pull the sling fabric up so that the baby is covered. Not only is the baby nursing comfortably and discreetly but you can still keep moving. Many times I am out with all three of my children and my little one needs to nurse. Since she is already on my hip in the sling, I just lay her down, latch her on, make sure the sling is up around her, and keep on shopping! A sling helps to make breastfeeding even more convenient. We slow down only enough to get latched on. Sometimes we stop to take a break and nurse, but it is nice knowing that it doesn't have to stop us, especially if the older boys are on the run!
No matter how you choose to breastfeed discreetly, it can be done. Mothers have breastfed everywhere; shopping centers, parks, libraries, restaurants. Other people around you would rather have a nursing baby then a crying one; and so would you! Meeting your baby's needs should come first and breastfeeding helps you to do it quickly and easily no matter where you are.
Debi Mitchell is the mother of three (currently 5 years, 3 years and 8 months) who volunteers time helping breastfeeding mothers. Her husband is in the Air Force, so she and her family move frequently! Her middle child has Down Syndrome and she likes to do research in that field. Debi homeschools her children and is devoted to attachment parenting. She has just started a home business selling slings. To find out more about slings, or to purchase one visit Debi's web site at www.slingbaby.com
Sharing Parenting: 10 Ways to Train Your Husband and Get the Help You Need
I faced a challenge when we started a family: my husband, Bill, had no domestic skills. He wanted to share parenting. His flexible hours as an academic allowed him to help at home. But he could barely boil an egg.Needless to say, our early experience was rocky. We persevered, however, and the fifty-fifty parenting arrangement we worked out with our first child made having our second baby much easier than it would have been otherwise. What follows are tips from our experience and from my reporting on the subject:
- Be sure it's what you want. Sharing parenting involves tradeoffs. As a mom, you don't always get to do things your way. You negotiate childcare issues a lot with your mate, which can be tedious. However you get a real partner and the kids get a hands-on dad. You also understand each other's lives better than when you operate in separate spheres.
- Take a stand. Women usually don't get a fifty-fifty deal unless they push for it. Parenting tasks can be tedious. Many men won't do them unless asked. In addition, women serve as gatekeepers for fathers' involvement; studies show that husbands take cues from their wives about how much to step in. Make clear what you want, see if he agrees, and if so, get out of the way.
- Don't take work as an excuse. Recently a new mom asked me, "If I stay at home with the kids and he works, should I expect him to help after hours?" Yes. After all, come evening you've both worked. Alternate parenting duties after hours so each person gets a break. But recognize that if he works 80 hours a week sharing parenting probably isn't an option. Parents who share duties usually have family-friendly careers.
- Be specific. I spent our first year parenting saying, "I need more help." Bill responded, "I want to help." And round and round we went. Finally I listed our domestic duties and we divided them up. Making the list was empowering. Finally all my minute tasks were visible to my partner. I also realized how much my husband was doing already.
- Create mom and dad duties. Often the obstacle to sharing parenting isn't the man in the house, but the toddler. The minute daddy takes over, the little one screams, "NO, I WANT MOMMY!" Kids thrive on routines so set duties can help with this. Make dad the bath guy and mom the bedtime reader. Don't intervene when your husband is in charge. And if junior hollers for dad when you're on duty? Don't judge yourself by your toddler's whims.
- Be flexible. Equal doesn't have to mean the same. Some couples thrive splitting childcare tasks down the middle. Others prefer to carve out separate spheres of responsibility. Either way works as long as each parent is free from meddling by the other.
- Train him. Nobody likes being told what to do. But if your husband is like mine, you have to train him. Show him how to make one simple kid's meal. Don't rescue him. You learned how to cook burning burgers too. And take heart, attitude is more important than aptitude. The difficult guy is the one who made the gourmet meals when you were dating and has refused to cook since.
- Air anger when necessary. The silent treatment doesn't work. I know. I've tried it. Having a tantrum, however, can be effective. I'm not proud of the one I had in a restaurant but it got my man's attention. Men can handle anger, but they're lousy at reading tea leaves. Better a few fights than resentment.
- Plan for baby number two. If you're having a second child, talk to your husband about the family's needs before the baby arrives. What worked or didn't the first time around? How can you do things differently? Get dad to start caring for your older child before the second arrives, by, say, getting your firstborn ready for school. Think small. What will need to be done? Who can do it best?
- Brag about sharing parenting. Boast to the women at the park. Praise your husband's parenting skills in front of others. A lot of people want to share parenting but lack role models. Your example can help. Bragging also recognizes shared parenting for what it is: a great accomplishment!
About the Author
Jennifer Bingham Hull's award-winning book, "Beyond One: Growing a Family and Getting a Life," looks at life after the second child. Visit http://www.growingafamily.com, where you can contact her to receive this "Life Beyond One" column regularly and sign up for her free newsletter.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Baby Sling - Fashionable Stress Reduction & Good For Your Kids
There are dozens of sites out there cataloguing the various benefits of baby wearing. Baby slings provide parent/child bonding, leg and muscle development, a calmer child, reduced post partum depression, and on and on and on. These are all very important, and I encourage parents and care givers to read up.
However, I wanted to take a slightly different approach. In this cyber world of emoticons and acronyms, I'm going to do my darnedest to make these pixels express my feelings about baby slings and why I do it.
Reason 1: It feels good
Flashback. The year, 2002. Handsome hubby and I have been married for just 10 months when our baby girl couldn't wait to surprise us. Nine months later, there she was: head full a black hair, big blue eyes with the loooongest eyelashes, and that funny gobbler chin. We were both in school and working, but I knew I couldn't bear to ever leave her, and my incredible husband afforded me the great blessing and honor of staying home with my baby. Were we poor? Heck yes! But we had faith, a beautiful baby, and we were happy. I carried her in the ugliest baby sling ever documented, but she was cute enough to make up for it. Her first year I'm not sure her head ever hit a pillow. What does a stay at home mom of one delightful infant do with her time? Nothing! And that's just how it should be. She never left my side. I talked to her. Sang to her. Sat with her. And I was happy.
Reason 2: You can get things done AND hold your baby
Now it's 2004. 10 days overdue in the record-breaking end of August heat, and 9.5 pound baby boy finally decides to join us on the outside. Fuzzy white hair. Blue eyes. And once again, looong eyelashes. My newly graduated husband has accepted a real grown-up job in Portland, Oregon, and we make the move with our two year old and two week old. Fortunately, I came across some slightly stretchy, sweet striped fabric on clearance and made a killer baby sling. Baby boy was all cuddled up in there while I packed with him. I talked & sang to him. I barely sat down. I was happy!
In Portland, I didn't know anyone, didn't know where the grocery store was, how the streets worked, nothing! We moved just as the rains were taking their permanent winter spot. Our families were hundreds of miles away. My husband was working full time for the first time in our marriage. I became depressed. My greatest solace was in those rare occasions of blissful silence when I looked at my baby's fat roll little body sleeping sweetly in the baby pouch against me. My two year old was a hilarious handful, so my chubby buddy practically lived in that baby sling carrier while I chased his big sis around the house, around the gymnastics studio & around the grocery store. I could hear his little baby sighs & see his little baby twitches. He could hear my heart beat while I rubbed his squishy little back through the sling. I talked to him about unpacking. I sang a song of settling in & I finally got to sit. I was happy.
Reason 3: It saves my sanity
Another couple of years and another move later, baby 3 shoots into this world in just 36 minutes flat. We've bought our first home with all of its ensuing projects. We started a business. We volunteered. Some days I can't, can't, can't do it all. Sometimes I snap under the pressure and turn into Momzilla - which always makes me cry as I take my precious little ones under my wing, yelling "TO HECK WITH HOUSEWORK!" and read book after book after book & then go to the park until it's too dark to see the slide.
I think about baby number one and mumble, "What on earth did I do all day with just one?" Now I barely stand still for thirty seconds at a time. Mom, make breakfast. Mom, we have no clean clothes. Mom, there's gum in my hair. I'm still hungry. He's stinky. I'm tired. That spilled. School fundraiser. Dozen cookies. Lost shoe. Hungry. Baby crying.
Oh, that baby crying. He hardly ever cries. He's the happiest little clam. But when he does cry and I say "I'm just doing this one more thing. Just a minute." My heart breaks just a little. I put him in my spiffy new cocoa brown HugaMonkey baby sling. He reaches up with a smile and tugs on my hoodie strings. Oh, those eyelashes! I ruffle the long black hair. He smiles more. I give him a little hug and soar with joy that he's curled up in front of me in that baby pouch. He sees my face. I sing while I cook. I talk while I wash. I sit while I tie shoes. I'm immensely happy.
Reason 4: I love my kids
I always want to spend every waking moment with my kids. I miss my grown up girl when she's at kindergarten for three whole hours. We have tea parties and dress up plays and car races. These are my three best friends. Any device that helps me be a better Mom while being practical, simple, and beautiful should win some sort of major award. If you can't surgically attach bionic arms to your body, then go for the next best thing. I love my baby sling.
By Art Gib
However, I wanted to take a slightly different approach. In this cyber world of emoticons and acronyms, I'm going to do my darnedest to make these pixels express my feelings about baby slings and why I do it.
Reason 1: It feels good
Flashback. The year, 2002. Handsome hubby and I have been married for just 10 months when our baby girl couldn't wait to surprise us. Nine months later, there she was: head full a black hair, big blue eyes with the loooongest eyelashes, and that funny gobbler chin. We were both in school and working, but I knew I couldn't bear to ever leave her, and my incredible husband afforded me the great blessing and honor of staying home with my baby. Were we poor? Heck yes! But we had faith, a beautiful baby, and we were happy. I carried her in the ugliest baby sling ever documented, but she was cute enough to make up for it. Her first year I'm not sure her head ever hit a pillow. What does a stay at home mom of one delightful infant do with her time? Nothing! And that's just how it should be. She never left my side. I talked to her. Sang to her. Sat with her. And I was happy.
Reason 2: You can get things done AND hold your baby
Now it's 2004. 10 days overdue in the record-breaking end of August heat, and 9.5 pound baby boy finally decides to join us on the outside. Fuzzy white hair. Blue eyes. And once again, looong eyelashes. My newly graduated husband has accepted a real grown-up job in Portland, Oregon, and we make the move with our two year old and two week old. Fortunately, I came across some slightly stretchy, sweet striped fabric on clearance and made a killer baby sling. Baby boy was all cuddled up in there while I packed with him. I talked & sang to him. I barely sat down. I was happy!
In Portland, I didn't know anyone, didn't know where the grocery store was, how the streets worked, nothing! We moved just as the rains were taking their permanent winter spot. Our families were hundreds of miles away. My husband was working full time for the first time in our marriage. I became depressed. My greatest solace was in those rare occasions of blissful silence when I looked at my baby's fat roll little body sleeping sweetly in the baby pouch against me. My two year old was a hilarious handful, so my chubby buddy practically lived in that baby sling carrier while I chased his big sis around the house, around the gymnastics studio & around the grocery store. I could hear his little baby sighs & see his little baby twitches. He could hear my heart beat while I rubbed his squishy little back through the sling. I talked to him about unpacking. I sang a song of settling in & I finally got to sit. I was happy.
Reason 3: It saves my sanity
Another couple of years and another move later, baby 3 shoots into this world in just 36 minutes flat. We've bought our first home with all of its ensuing projects. We started a business. We volunteered. Some days I can't, can't, can't do it all. Sometimes I snap under the pressure and turn into Momzilla - which always makes me cry as I take my precious little ones under my wing, yelling "TO HECK WITH HOUSEWORK!" and read book after book after book & then go to the park until it's too dark to see the slide.
I think about baby number one and mumble, "What on earth did I do all day with just one?" Now I barely stand still for thirty seconds at a time. Mom, make breakfast. Mom, we have no clean clothes. Mom, there's gum in my hair. I'm still hungry. He's stinky. I'm tired. That spilled. School fundraiser. Dozen cookies. Lost shoe. Hungry. Baby crying.
Oh, that baby crying. He hardly ever cries. He's the happiest little clam. But when he does cry and I say "I'm just doing this one more thing. Just a minute." My heart breaks just a little. I put him in my spiffy new cocoa brown HugaMonkey baby sling. He reaches up with a smile and tugs on my hoodie strings. Oh, those eyelashes! I ruffle the long black hair. He smiles more. I give him a little hug and soar with joy that he's curled up in front of me in that baby pouch. He sees my face. I sing while I cook. I talk while I wash. I sit while I tie shoes. I'm immensely happy.
Reason 4: I love my kids
I always want to spend every waking moment with my kids. I miss my grown up girl when she's at kindergarten for three whole hours. We have tea parties and dress up plays and car races. These are my three best friends. Any device that helps me be a better Mom while being practical, simple, and beautiful should win some sort of major award. If you can't surgically attach bionic arms to your body, then go for the next best thing. I love my baby sling.
By Art Gib
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Why mighty mamas like to wear their babies
Babies worn in slings are happier. Studies have shown that the more babies are held, the less they cry and fuss. In indigenous cultures where baby-wearing is the norm, babies often cry for only a few minutes a day – as opposed to Western babies, who frequently cry for hours each day. Crying is exhausting for both baby and his parents, and causes much stress in new families. Babies who are not wasting their energy on crying are calmly observing and learning about their environment. Baby-wearing is particularly useful for colicky or "high needs" babies who are far happier being worn, but even the placid, content child will benefit from the warmth and security of being held close.Baby-wearing is good exercise for you! It's hard to find time to exercise when you are a new mother, but if you carry your baby around with you most of the day or go for a brisk walk with your baby in her sling, you will be doing your body good. A long walk in the sling is also an excellent way to put a child to sleep.
Toddlers appreciate the security of the sling. Many people associate slings with infants, but they are very useful for toddlers as well (most slings accommodate children up to 13 kg). The world is often a scary place for toddlers, so they feel more confident when they can retreat to the security of the sling when they need to. Toddlers are also prone to becoming over-stimulated, and a ride in the sling helps to soothe and comfort them before (or after!) a melt-down occurs. It is also very practical in places like the zoo or aquarium, where a small child in a stroller would not be able to see very much.
Baby-wearing helps you and your baby communicate better with each other. The more competent you feel as a parent, the more you can relax and enjoy your child. And a large part of feeling confident in your parenting is being able to read your baby's cues successfully. When your baby is held close to you in a sling, you become very sensitive to each other's gestures and facial expressions. Many baby-wearing parents report that they never learn to distinguish their baby's cries (as mainstream parenting books say they should) – because their babies are able to communicate effectively without crying! Each time your baby is able to let you know she is hungry, bored or wet without crying, her trust in you is boosted and your confidence in yourself as a parent is reinforced. This positive cycle of interactions builds upon itself, enhances your mutual attachment, and makes life more enjoyable for everyone.
Slings are a bonding tool for fathers, grandparents and other caregivers. Slings are a useful tool for everyone in baby's life. It makes me smile every time I see a dad going for a walk with his baby in a sling. Baby is becoming used to his voice, heartbeat, movements and facial expressions and the two are forging a strong attachment of their own. Fathers don't get the automatic head start on bonding that comes with gestation, but that doesn't mean they can't make up for this once baby is born. The same goes for babysitters, grandparents and anyone else the baby comes into contact with. Cuddling up close in the sling is a wonderful way to get to know the baby in your life, and for the baby to get to know you.
Slings are a safe place for a child to be. Instead of being pushed along the street inhaling exhaust fumes in a stroller or running around loose in a busy parking lot, a child in a sling is held safe and secure right next to your body. Slings also provide emotional safety, so that children can venture into the world and become independent at their own pace.
Slings save you money. Apart from being easy to use, slings cost far less than those big boat-like strollers, designer front-carriers or baby backpacks. In fact, once you start using one you'll probably find it among your most useful and economical possessions. Not bad for an item you'll end up using daily for at least a couple of years...
It's fun to wear your baby. Who doesn't love to cuddle a downy-headed, sweet-smelling little baby? And when your baby is older, having her in the sling makes conversations easier and allows you to observe her reactions to the wonders of the world around her. It's also fun for baby, because when she is up at eye level, other adults notice and interact with her a lot. Your child will feel more a part of your life when she is in her sling, and you will find yourself becoming more and more enchanted with your special little person.
Why a Mighty Mama Sling..
It’s easier to understand babywearing when you think of a baby’s gestation period as lasting eighteen months – nine months inside the womb and at least nine months outside.
During the first nine months the womb environment regulates baby’s systems automatically. Wearing your baby close and letting her feel your heartbeat and that familiar rhythmic walking that she knows so well from those first months inside, will help her make sense of the outside world much faster.
The appeal of baby carriers is that they free up your hands to get things done. Unfortunately many modern varieties on the market are complicated, cumbersome and aren’t very comfy.
The Mighty Mama sling is different … taking the wisdom of the African Mama who carries her baby in a sling type carrier that looks like part of her outfit, the sling is safe, comfortable for the carrier and for baby and is versatile — you can use the same sling from birth until 2 years and can carry baby in a variety of positions. The Mighty Mama sling is easy to use—you can adjust the sling with one hand with baby inside it and safely slip a sleeping baby out of the sling without disturbing the child. It is also ideal for breastfeeding baby discreetly.
Reasons to get yourself a Mighty Mama sling
Comfortable to wear
A baby carrier must be comfortable for both baby and carrier and this is what we’ve aimed to achieve with our Mighty Mama slings. The baby’s weight is distributed evenly across the adult’s shoulders and hips and places no strain (when worn correctly) on the back and neck.
We have padded our slings on all pressure points for extra comfort; where the edges of the sling press into the baby’s torso and legs and along the shoulders of the wearer. The tail has been sewn shut for an easy grip and
Easy to use
It is a well known fact that if something is too awkward and time consuming to use, we won’t bother with it! With this thought in mind we have made our baby sling in such a way that it can be adjusted with the baby inside it, single-handedly, without disturbing the baby. It is also designed in such a way that you can easily slip it off while your baby is sleeping.
When you carry your baby in a sling, you can walk around freely and not have to worry about negotiating steps, crowds or narrow aisles with a stroller. Plastic "baby buckets" are heavy and awkward for parents and they sure don't look too comfortable for the baby being swung around at knee level!
Handy for nursing moms
For mothers who breastfeed, the sling is the ultimate blessing! You can carry your baby close to you at all times and nursing is very discreet. There are no buckles or straps in the way. When your baby is fussy or hungry your can quickly latch him on and he can drift off to sleep while in the sling. Very handy for those inopportune times when you can’t find a private, quiet place to nurse your baby or when you can’t sit down!!
Versatility
Our sling is such a practical accessory because it can be used from birth to at least two years of age. It can also be used in a variety of other ways. Try using yours as a changing mat, a travel blanket, a safety belt for sitting in shopping trolleys or restaurant high chairs, as a shade cloth, a pillow,… be creative!
During the first nine months the womb environment regulates baby’s systems automatically. Wearing your baby close and letting her feel your heartbeat and that familiar rhythmic walking that she knows so well from those first months inside, will help her make sense of the outside world much faster.
The appeal of baby carriers is that they free up your hands to get things done. Unfortunately many modern varieties on the market are complicated, cumbersome and aren’t very comfy.
The Mighty Mama sling is different … taking the wisdom of the African Mama who carries her baby in a sling type carrier that looks like part of her outfit, the sling is safe, comfortable for the carrier and for baby and is versatile — you can use the same sling from birth until 2 years and can carry baby in a variety of positions. The Mighty Mama sling is easy to use—you can adjust the sling with one hand with baby inside it and safely slip a sleeping baby out of the sling without disturbing the child. It is also ideal for breastfeeding baby discreetly.
Reasons to get yourself a Mighty Mama sling
Comfortable to wear
A baby carrier must be comfortable for both baby and carrier and this is what we’ve aimed to achieve with our Mighty Mama slings. The baby’s weight is distributed evenly across the adult’s shoulders and hips and places no strain (when worn correctly) on the back and neck.
We have padded our slings on all pressure points for extra comfort; where the edges of the sling press into the baby’s torso and legs and along the shoulders of the wearer. The tail has been sewn shut for an easy grip and
Easy to use
It is a well known fact that if something is too awkward and time consuming to use, we won’t bother with it! With this thought in mind we have made our baby sling in such a way that it can be adjusted with the baby inside it, single-handedly, without disturbing the baby. It is also designed in such a way that you can easily slip it off while your baby is sleeping.
When you carry your baby in a sling, you can walk around freely and not have to worry about negotiating steps, crowds or narrow aisles with a stroller. Plastic "baby buckets" are heavy and awkward for parents and they sure don't look too comfortable for the baby being swung around at knee level!
Handy for nursing moms
For mothers who breastfeed, the sling is the ultimate blessing! You can carry your baby close to you at all times and nursing is very discreet. There are no buckles or straps in the way. When your baby is fussy or hungry your can quickly latch him on and he can drift off to sleep while in the sling. Very handy for those inopportune times when you can’t find a private, quiet place to nurse your baby or when you can’t sit down!!
Versatility
Our sling is such a practical accessory because it can be used from birth to at least two years of age. It can also be used in a variety of other ways. Try using yours as a changing mat, a travel blanket, a safety belt for sitting in shopping trolleys or restaurant high chairs, as a shade cloth, a pillow,… be creative!
Sling wearing - great for baby, great for you!!
Having your hands free, discreet breast-feeding and not having to lug around heavy baby seats and prams is just ‘the cherry on top’ when it comes to the benefits of carrying your baby in a sling.
The one who benefits most is the little one who is being carried! Benefits include:
v Womb-like warmth and a close proximity to mom.
v Soothing movement helps baby sleep with ease.
v Babies who suffer from reflux and wind benefit from being carried in upright position
v Easily distracted babies find quiet containment in being in the sling and therefore will find it easier to nurse.
v Being at eye level with everything happening around him will help baby learn and internalize his new world more intently.
DUBIOUS? The most frequently asked questions about sling wearing …
Baby looks all scrunched up – surely it’s not comfortable?
Babies are used to being ‘scrunched’ up in the womb, and enjoy the secure feeling of being curled up in the sling — just be sure that baby’s chin is not pressed to his chest and that his face is not pressed tightly against your body. Remember to position baby with head and toes to the rails and not lying between the rails as one would in a hammock!
I have tried to wear a sling, but find it quite uncomfortable?
Make these checks – you’re bound to come to a comfy conclusion.
Check ring position — most people find it more comfortable to wear the rings as high up as possible.
Check the shoulder pad is positioned squarely on your shoulder — do not allow it to ride against your neck or too far forward or back.
Check how the sling fabric lies across your shoulder — the goal is to spread the weight evenly across your shoulder. Do not allow the material attached to the pillow on your shoulder to fan down over your arm, restricting your arm movements —keep this material folded back over the pillow.
Check how the sling fabric lies across your back — spread the back of the sling as widely as possible. The more you spread it, the less strain you will feel. Spreading it as low as possible is the key - even a small amount can make a lot of difference to your comfort.
Check how high you are carrying baby — the higher you carry your baby, the more comfortable you will be.
Is it worth buying a sling – surely I will only get use out of it for a short time?
Very! Slings are suitable carriers for babies from birth until 2 years of age. They also have a whole lot of other uses… Try using yours as a changing mat, a travel blanket, a safety belt for sitting in shopping trolleys or restaurant high chairs, as a shade cloth, a pillow… Slings are also very handy for sharing the load when you aren’t carrying baby, but have more to carry than what you can manage with your hands!
Be creative – slings wearing really is fun!
The one who benefits most is the little one who is being carried! Benefits include:
v Womb-like warmth and a close proximity to mom.
v Soothing movement helps baby sleep with ease.
v Babies who suffer from reflux and wind benefit from being carried in upright position
v Easily distracted babies find quiet containment in being in the sling and therefore will find it easier to nurse.
v Being at eye level with everything happening around him will help baby learn and internalize his new world more intently.
DUBIOUS? The most frequently asked questions about sling wearing …
Baby looks all scrunched up – surely it’s not comfortable?
Babies are used to being ‘scrunched’ up in the womb, and enjoy the secure feeling of being curled up in the sling — just be sure that baby’s chin is not pressed to his chest and that his face is not pressed tightly against your body. Remember to position baby with head and toes to the rails and not lying between the rails as one would in a hammock!
I have tried to wear a sling, but find it quite uncomfortable?
Make these checks – you’re bound to come to a comfy conclusion.
Check ring position — most people find it more comfortable to wear the rings as high up as possible.
Check the shoulder pad is positioned squarely on your shoulder — do not allow it to ride against your neck or too far forward or back.
Check how the sling fabric lies across your shoulder — the goal is to spread the weight evenly across your shoulder. Do not allow the material attached to the pillow on your shoulder to fan down over your arm, restricting your arm movements —keep this material folded back over the pillow.
Check how the sling fabric lies across your back — spread the back of the sling as widely as possible. The more you spread it, the less strain you will feel. Spreading it as low as possible is the key - even a small amount can make a lot of difference to your comfort.
Check how high you are carrying baby — the higher you carry your baby, the more comfortable you will be.
Is it worth buying a sling – surely I will only get use out of it for a short time?
Very! Slings are suitable carriers for babies from birth until 2 years of age. They also have a whole lot of other uses… Try using yours as a changing mat, a travel blanket, a safety belt for sitting in shopping trolleys or restaurant high chairs, as a shade cloth, a pillow… Slings are also very handy for sharing the load when you aren’t carrying baby, but have more to carry than what you can manage with your hands!
Be creative – slings wearing really is fun!
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