How to make a baby sling from a bedsheet

When visiting mothers about two weeks postpartum, I often find moms are feeling more like themselves and ready to start doing more activities. Their newborns often have other ideas, sometimes wanting to be held most of the day. To help meet the need of baby and mother I often recommend the use of baby wearing.

The practice of baby wearing is know the world over and has been used for centuries. It enables the mother to maintain the closeness with her child, but also free her hands for other tasks and activities. Beyond the practical benefits for the mother by wearing her child, there are many benefits of baby wearing for the baby itself. Many of these benefits are outlined by Dr. Sears on his website AskDrSears.com. Some of these benefits include a baby that cries less, increased brain development, and more opportunities for nurturing touch which has benefits of its own.

While there are many options of carriers available, I like to show my clients a basic carry using just a regular bed sheet and a slip knot. Most homes have an extra sheet available, and this form of carrier can be used from birth through toddler age.

Here is a link that has a good video of how to make the sling out of a bed sheet. Sheet Sling Video. Take some time to practice this so it becomes second nature. Then, when your baby is fussy, or you and baby need to be on the go, all you have to do is put on your sling and you are on your way.

(For correct positioning of your baby your choice of carrier, check out the guidelines provided by Attachment Parenting International.)

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