Surprising Benefits of Slings and Baby Carriers!

Slings or wraps are worn over the shoulder, toga style. The New Native and Maya Wrap are two popular brands. Slings and wraps cross the user's chest and hang above the waist. Newborns and infants with no neck control should be placed on their backs in the folds of the fabric (as if they're lying in a hammock).

Slings allow parents and their babies to share plenty of eye contact. Some mothers use slings to breastfeed discretely in public. Older babies who can sit up unassisted can be worn on mom's hip, with the folds of the sling supporting their bottoms. Toddlers can be positioned piggyback-style.