Over the weekend, I saw SO many people discussing this in the social media.
Since the "blogosphere" is pretty saturated with talk of baby slings, I was reluctant to even broach the topic here. However, because I have seen so much fearmongering and misinformation, I feel I must point out a few things. (for more complete information, please follow the links provided)
To begin with, let me note that the CPSC issued a warning, not a recall. In this statement, they do not state which brands or which styles of slings are at fault. (Specific brands have been recalled in the past.) They are urging all parents and caregivers to use caution with these carriers and to check on the baby while he or she is in them. This is simply common sense.
Certain styles of slings are known to be "safer" than others. If you're familiar with baby-wearing, you know this. If you are not, the information is easily obtained. There is no substitute for knowledge. Do the research. Soon, these products will be rated, like every other infant product such as cribs or bouncy seats. In the meantime, if you choose to wear your baby, please look for safety guidelines regarding the baby's age, size positioning and other factors. (see links below)
When I taught new moms how to use infant carriers, we would emphasize making sure baby's face was visible, body was not scrunched up chin to chest...and lots more. We would go over and over these details, even leaving them with a printed copy of the safety instructions and our phone numbers. Every reputable company does the same thing in one form or another.
What is my point? Please do not let some people's need for drama scare you into thinking that all slings are bad or dangerous. One blogger I read urged parents to throw out their slings. Are you serious? Some car seats have been recalled. Should we stop using those too?
Baby slings are popular for a reason. The benefits to the mother and to the baby are well-documented.
At the same time, the purpose of wearing a baby is not so that you can forget about your baby and go on about your business. As with any other product, slings must be used with care. They are not suitable for all babies or all adults.
As always, I urge parents to make informed decisions. Ask around. Search the web. Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Here are more resources you may find helpful.
TheBabyWearer.com
Babywearing Safety Facebook Group
An ABC news report explains the issue in more detail...giving more specific guidelines than the CPSC does.
TheBabyWearer.com
Babywearing Safety Facebook Group
An ABC news report explains the issue in more detail...giving more specific guidelines than the CPSC does.
13 comments:
I read about this too. I agree--everyone has to use common sense! My niece has one of these and really loved it and her baby did too.
Love my slings and wouldn't parent without them. Common sense is key!
I never could ever get comfortable wearing my baby in a sling. It must not have been for me. But I can see how it would be so beneficial for the moms who make them work. And I can also see how it would be important to use caution with them too. Great post
I've been reading about this uproar and I find it pretty ridiculous. You're exactly right; it's about using common sense, knowing what you're doing, and paying a little bit of attention to that tiny human strapped to your body. Doesn't seem all that hard to me.
I have a Moby baby wrap for my daughter, we've used it since she was just a three and a half pound preemie for kangaroo care and I LOVE it. Now she's bigger, (13 pounds, 11 months old) but I still use it a lot when I'm doing housework, shopping, going for a walk, whathaveyou.
It would be nice if people would start using their brains instead of flipping the holy crap out every time something tragic (yet TOTALLY PREVENTABLE) happens. Sad.
Ok, I think blogger just ate my BRILLIANT COMMENT, but rather than try to relive the brilliance, I'm just going to say, yes! I agree with you! Great post! And then hurl my laptop out the window.
Oh. Apparently I needed to put my patient pants on. There's my brilliant comment right up there. *Sheepishly shuffles feet*
I know people swear by them, but I just felt like my babies were swinging freely and I hated having them in front of me like that. I was all about the backpack.
I used to have a sling, but I never was a fan of them. However my girlfriend loved hers and it was like heaven sent for her.
I agree, people need to make informed decision and pay attention to details.
I love how people forget to use common sense sometimes...thanks for posting the links for us!
I am another baby-wearing mom (though mine are too big to carry nowadays). I was surprised by people's willingness to go crazy over that warning.
I'm glad you're adding to the voices disseminating the truth about slings and baby wearing!
I so agree, USE COMMON SENSE. I never used the sling because I just didn't like it.
I used slings with all 4 of mine. The oldest is almost 21 and when she was an infant I got all sorts of odd looks. Today I see them all the time.
I'm surprised by how many people told me that they are giving up slings for safety issues. Common sense doesn't always reign supreme. Thank you for putting up a post with actual information on baby wearing instead of just hype and fear.
I just saw this and while I wasn't aware of the dangers of slings - as an educated photographer I am aware that many of the newer hand made photo props are causing the same problems. So parents - remember - when taking your baby in for pictures it should not be posed chin to chest. This can cause the airway to be cut off and cause the baby to expire. Cute pictures aren't worth it, so look out. Many photogrpahers are self trained or have no training, so it's best to be aware of dangers yourself. (Or, of course, if you're close, just come to me. Baby safety is a priority in my studio)
Post a Comment