Sometime in the midst of my pregnancy, as I was searching for strollers and travel systems, I came across the baby wearing trend. Apparently, it has been around for hundreds of years in different parts of the world, and has been gaining popularity recently.
According to Dr. Sears, when babies are worn, they cry less, learn more, become smarter.
I was really fond of the idea of wearing my baby, so I searched online to see where I can buy those wraps and carriers in Manila. The first one that I purchased was the Baby K’Tan Active, then my husband got the Boba 3G and Boba Wrap.
As for my experience with baby wearing, Rafael is my first baby so I don’t have a point for comparison. People have remarked that he’s a very quiet and observant baby. He rarely cries, and it seems like he can easily communicate his needs to me.
Baby K’Tan Active
from The Nest PH
We went to their shop in Pasig City so that I can be properly fitted. Since I was eight months pregnant at that time, the staff of Mothercare were not sure about how the K’Tan should fit me. There, I met the owner of the shop, Tiffany. She demonstrated how to wear the K’Tan with a teddy bear, and ensured that I get the proper fit.
After I gave birth, we left the hospital with our little Rafael in the K’Tan. It seems like the nurses in SLMC-QC were not familiar with babywearing since they were all shocked and amazed when they saw me wearing the baby.
This is still my favorite carrier. My only problem with this is that I’m unable to breastfeed in it.
Boba 3G
from Numa Baby
This one is my husband’s purchase. I was surprised when he got this from Numa’s Sale last December 2015. Apparently, he was quite jealous of the K’Tan, so he wanted a way to be able to bond with Rafael the same way. It worked great when he was a newborn, but when Raffy reached 12 Lbs, it became awkward. Right now, we’re waiting for Rafael to reach 15 Lbs so we can use it again using the standard setting.
Boba Wrap
from Numa Baby
Since my husband is not able to wear Rafael during the awkward 12-15 Lb stage of the 3G, he got the Boba Wrap last month. It’s very long piece of stretchy fabric so it’s Freesize. Instructions are pretty easy to follow, and it’s a breeze to put on once we got the hang of it. The only con for me is the fabric. Since it’s currently summertime here, it can get very hot in the wrap.
Since Rafael is now fast-approaching 15 Lbs, we gave away this wrap to my husband’s cousin who has a four-week-old baby. We’re very happy whenever we see people interested about babywearing when we are out and about.
HOW TO SUCCEED IN BABY WEARING
Babywearing is still considered unconventional here in the Philippines, hence, you’ll get a lot of stares from strangers when you walk around wearing your baby. It’s very important to have a very strong support system – may it be your husband, family, or friends. I am very blessed that my husband is very supportive. From my birthing to breastfeeding to babywearing, he’s been with me all the way.
Aside from my him, Babywearing support groups help a lot. These are the Philippine-based babywearing groups in Facebook: Babywearing Philippines and Filipino Association of Babywearers. I’m not very active in groups, but I’ve learned a lot by lurking around and backreading. The groups are especially helpful in finding the perfect carrier that will fit you and your lifestyle, and in sharing experiences while babywearing.
I’ve worn my baby since the day we left the hospital (the third day of his life), and it’s one of the best decisions we’ve made. It’s a total spacesaver, and a lifesaver when nothing else works help him sleep.
Just always remember the T.I.C.K.S. rule for safe babywearing:
T – TIGHT
You should be able to hug your baby close. This is for security and comfort. Loose fabrics will lead to a slumping baby and can hinder their breathing.
I – IN VIEW AT ALL TIMES
You should always see your baby’s face. Baby’s face should be facing up wards when in cradle position, and should not face your baby.
C – CLOSE ENOUGH TO KISS
Baby’s head should be comfortably close to your chin. You should be able to kiss him when you tip your head forward.
K – KEEP CHIN OFF THE CHEST
Make sure that your baby should not be curled in such a way that his chin is forced to his chest – this will restric his breathing. Check that you can always see at least a finger-width’s space under his chin.
S – SUPPORTED BACK
Slumping leads to partially closed airways. Test by placing a hand on your baby’s back and pressing gently. He should not uncurl, and should be snugly fitted to you already.
Also check out this very helpful and informative leaflet from Babywearing.co.uk.
I hope that you will have (or are already having) an amazing babywearing journey!
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