Interesting information for anyone wanting to try baby-wearing, whether that be for going to the Olympics or not. Organisers of The London 2012 Olympics have announced that babes in arms are now
allowed into the Olympic venues if safey secured to an adult. This announcement was made on Tuesday 8th May 2012. I used to love using a baby carrier when all three of the Madhouse Mini-testers were small, for the closeness but also because it is so much easier on public transport. I'd never thought about the safety issues of buying cheap slings on ebay though, so read on and take note before putting your baby at risk.
allowed into the Olympic venues if safey secured to an adult. This announcement was made on Tuesday 8th May 2012. I used to love using a baby carrier when all three of the Madhouse Mini-testers were small, for the closeness but also because it is so much easier on public transport. I'd never thought about the safety issues of buying cheap slings on ebay though, so read on and take note before putting your baby at risk.
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Parents have been told that if they bring their baby to the London 2012 Olympics this Summer, they must ditch the buggy and carry their baby to the event. Now leading UK brand Connecta Baby Carrier is encouraging visitors to the event to ensure they follow essential guidelines in order to ensure baby safety and maximum baby and grown-up comfort.
Sarah Sadler – owner of Connecta Baby Carrier – says it’s imperative that the TICKS guidelines are followed so that parents and carers make informed choices of what baby carrier is suitable and safe.
TICKS was developed by BABI (British Association Of Babywearing Instructors) due to the increase of counterfeit and poorly designed baby slings that have flooded the market via auction websites. While these second-rate alternatives can seem like a bargain, parents are putting their baby at risk by using them. The check list for TICKS is:
Tight.
In view at all times.
Close enough to kiss.
Keep chin off your chest.
Supported back .
“It is absolutely vital that parents who are looking to buy a baby sling, purchase from a trusted source and retailer. Fake branded versions often have poor stitching and material which can tear easily, or are poorly made resulting in discomfort or injury to you or your baby,” Sadler adds.
The safe positioning of baby inside the chosen carrier/sling is also important. Some available carriers are less than ideal. In particular, ‘bag slings’ have several significant design flaws that could place a baby at risk of respiratory distress or oxygen deprivation. Some bag slings have been recalled and are banned by the NCT yet are still available through online auction sites. The 'bag slings' are roughly triangle shaped; they have a flat
bottom with two sides slanting upwards toward the elastic top. This “triangle” design means that the pouch fabric is always angled very close to the sides of baby’s face. If baby rotates even slightly he ends up with his nose within a ¼” of the side, or even pressed against the side of the pouch, restricting breathing and oxygen.
“Babywearing should not only be enjoyable and encourage the bond between mum and dad, family members and carers and their children, but ultimately your baby must be safe at all times,” explains Sarah – who, as a baby wearing consultant of six years, provides skilled training and advice to ensure that adults can carry their baby with the minimum of risk.
If in doubt please parents should use the online webguide – www.slingguide.co.uk to assist with their choice and if they would like to obtain a personal consultantcy they can use www.BABI.me.uk. “Following this simple advice will help ensure that your baby enjoys his time being carried and the correct level of support is offered to both infant and carer,” adds mother of three, Sarah. “These guidelines have been designed following years of practical experience and research.”
Sadler emphasises the application of common sense when using a baby sling; protecting little limbs or heads from the sun's rays and consuming hot food and drink over the baby are two obvious errors. Additional sun covers are available for the Connecta range, to protect from the suns harmful rays. The Connecta Baby Carrier is ideal for the Olympics – very easy to use - three buckles allowing you to enjoy the day with peace of mind.
To celebrate the Olympics, ConnectaBabyCarrier has unveiled its new Union Jack design to commemorate
the pride of the nation. “Carrying your baby should be comfortable for baby and parents as well as offering stylish designs to suit all people and all occasions. Our new Union Jack design, one of many bespoke designs we make, has been designed to put that extra special sense of pride to celebrate an exciting Summer.”
Celebrities such as Orlando Bloom and his wife and Miranda Kerr have already made carrying your baby hugely popular and now everyone will be able to do this safely and stylishly.
Finally, Surrey-based Sarah suggests trying before you buy and getting in touch with your local sling library: “There are many sling libraries across the country that give parents and carers the opportunity to discover for themselves the opportunities and benefits that baby carrying can open up. Why not get in touch and find out what’s available for you!” she concludes.
For more information from BABI (British Association of Babywearing Industry) please visit:
http://babi.me.uk/
http://babi.me.uk/
For information on sling libraries network http://www.ukslinglibraries.co.uk/
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I used to love carrying both my boys in slings, but I was always slightly wary of tripping while wearing it!
ReplyDeleteJust a thought - but if you trip with your baby in a good sling - you will have both hands free to break your fall and potentially balance yourself before falling. If you are carrying your baby without a sling you don't wont. A good sling will centre your balance. :)
DeleteI took Joseph to Lords to see a cricket match in a sling, he was around one, and it was great! Good decision by the Olympic Committee.
ReplyDeleteMy over riding feeling about this announcement is "Big Brother" interfering and inadequate arrangements and facilities for families.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your review.
interesting reading - like bloomers i worried about falling whilst wearing a sling, however mummysaz makes a great point!
ReplyDeletemy sling was great when babba was born but hes so heavy now i dont think i could carry him for long!
ReplyDelete