Baby carriers & babywearing: cuddling your kids with your hands free

This is for anyone with an interest in babywearing--if you love holding your baby but want your hands back, have a sling and don't know how to use it, or know how to use it but want to learn something new, this is for you.  We'll explore the world of ring slings, wraps, pouches, mei tais, and all kinds of variations.  Classes will be mixed presentation and active practice, so please bring any carriers you have, and most importantly, your babies and kids!   We'll introduce the kinds of carriers and safe techniques for using each; and depending on who is interested in what, we can go on to more advanced babywearing techniques, including back carries and nursing in a sling, or we could talk about tricks for babywearing on the cheap--DIY carriers from bedsheets to padded headrests.
 
Babywearing has gained in popularity lately; on any trip to the downtown or Waverly farmer's markets you're sure to see babes riding on a parents' back, front, or hip.  Much of the interest has come from attachment parenting theory--it's a great way to stay close to your kids and give them the attention and love they are looking for when they need you so constantly.  When babies are carried, they cry less, spend more time in a quiet, alert state, and develop a strong sense of security.  Having a baby physically close makes it easy to interact and show them a stimulating environment.  But the appeal is wider than any single parenting theory; aside from pure convenience, babywearing is used for treating reflux, it's great exercise, it's often much better suited to urban living than a stroller, and it's way better than lugging a carseat around.   
 
Your instructor is a Volunteer Babywearing Educator certified by Babywearing International and mom of two slingbabies, who lives in Mt. Vernon and never has to try to take a stroller on the bus.