If you've been searching for a baby carrier that is as soft and cozy as a wrap, but doesn't mean you have to wrap yards and yards of fabric around your body (turning "mommy" into "mummy"), the Happy Baby Carrier is a great option for you!
When I introduced the Happy Baby Carrier earlier this year, I shared my experience with the baby carriers I used when our little boy was a tiny newborn. I loved the softness and comfort of my wrap carrier, but it took so long to put on. And if my little man was upset, it felt like an eternity! I also struggled with keeping it clean and off the ground when I tried putting the wrap on when I was out and about! Then I started using a baby carrier as my little boy got bigger, but I just didn't like it. It was SO uncomfortable! So I'm really excited to tell you a little more about the Happy Baby Carrier today, and I'm also excited to share a few tips and tricks for using it with your baby as he grows!
I really love that this carrier has the comfort of a wrap with the simplicity and ease-of-use of a baby carrier. Made of high-quality linen, it actually gets softer with use! In addition to being super soft, the linen fabric also means it is lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for hot weather! It is also much more compact, making it super portable because it won't take up much space in your diaper bag.
It also has several features that will definitely make your life easier! And I don't think I know ANY parent who couldn't use a little help now and then...or all the time! I love that the front pocket contains a sunshade that can be used to keep your baby protected from the sun AND doubles as a nursing cover! And there is still plenty of room for your cell phone or other items in this pocket. But the best feature, by far, is the shoulder strap that keeps your purse or diaper bag in place. With a simple snap, you can keep your purse or diaper bag from slipping off your shoulder, leaving your hands free to take care of your baby...or anything else! It basically gives you another hand! And I don't know ANY parent that doesn't feel like they could use an extra hand now and then...or all the time!
You can also use the Happy Baby Carrier in three different positions—the newborn carry, the front carry, or the back carry position.
The newborn carry position is ideal for a tiny newborn, and ensures that you keep your baby's growing legs and hips in the right position. For this position, start by placing the carrier on your stomach, threading the clip through the safety elastic then buckling the carrier around your waist (between your natural waist and your hips). Next, lay your baby on your shoulder, then place his feet together with his knees apart. Pull the carrier up and tuck your baby into the pocket, then buckle the shoulder strap and make sure it is placed between your shoulder blades.
The front carry position is ideal for a baby who has outgrown the newborn carry position. For this position, start by placing the carrier on your stomach, threading the clip through the safety elastic, then buckling the carrier around your waist (between your natural waist and your hips). Next, place your baby on your chest facing you in an "m" position (with his knees above his hips, forming an "m" with his knees and bum). Pull the carrier up and tuck your baby into the pocket, then buckle the shoulder strap, and make sure it is placed between your shoulder blades.
The back carry position is ideal for a child who can hold his head up and who is tall enough to see over the carrier when he is placed on your back. For most babies, this is a great option when they're approximately six months old. For this position, start by placing the carrier on your back, threading the clip through the safety elastic then buckling the carrier around your waist (between your natural waist and your hips). Next, pull the carrier up and place one arm through the shoulder strap. Place your baby on the opposite hip, then, with your hand, pull your baby's foot through the carrier. Lean forward and slide your baby into the carrier (make sure to always support your baby with your hand), then slide your arm into the other shoulder strap. Buckle the chest strap, and adjust the carrier so your baby is comfortable and safe.
For additional tips and step-by-step pictures for each of these positions, check out the Happy Baby Carrier instruction booklet!