Babywearing isn’t just for moms–dads can share the benefits by using a carrier like the ERGOBaby, too.
Moms everywhere are turning onto babywearing. What’s not to love? Baby is safe, happy, and secure and mom can have two hands free, too! The motion is a natural way to soothe colicky newborns and you can keep toddlers close and out of trouble in new places. I’ve nursed Baby Diva in a carrier, taken her along to weddings and other events, and now she comes along house hunting, too.
I have seen pictures of fathers enjoying babywearing, too, but until now I have not been able to convince Captain Dad to give it a try.
When the ErgoBaby arrived, I laid the groundwork: “It is just like
a backpack. We can go hiking with her!”
After seeing the simple, rugged design of the Ergo, Captain Dad agreed to give it a try. Baby Diva loved being attached to Daddy and Dad was hooked. I now have photographic proof that even (especially?) strong, masculine men can enjoy babywearing.
Of course, I will be using the Ergo, too. Coping with back pain while being a mom is no fun, and I am excited to find a carrier that really does distribute Baby Diva’s weight so I can keep carrying her. The Ergo can also buckle low on my hips–perfect for pregnant moms who want to keep carrying their toddler!
The Ergo does take a little time to learn how to use, but even someone as uncoordinated as me was comfortable after a couple of practice runs with a spotter. The enclosed instructional DVD is clear and easy to follow.
As a soft structured carrier, the Ergo combines the benefits of several different types of carriers. Personally, I am a babywearing addict and do not intend to ditch any of my slings or wraps, but I do intend to use the Ergo for longer walks and hikes. I found that the Ergo:
- Distributes the baby’s weight across your hips and shoulders
- Is ergonomically correct and comfortable for baby
- May be used in the front, back, or side (hip) positions
- Allows for discreet nursing
- Comes with a hood for sleeping or nursing baby
- Can be combined with an infant insert for use with newborns
The ERGO Baby Carrier ($92), and some great accessories like the ERGO backpack and front pack attachments (carry baby and your stuff!), the infant insert, and the papoose coat, is available direct and at your favorite babywearing stores.