Working
with adult and baby body mechanics, rather than with samples
in front of her, Shanti McIvor, 22, of the Sunshine Coast,
Queensland, has developed a baby sling. Her Baba Sling is
praised by infancy professionals as well as parents in Australia
and overseas for addressing many issues of babywearing, such
as safety, comfortablity, flexibility and number of wearing
positions ... Shanti addresses ante, poste natal and other
community groups, demonstrating babywearing, and sharing her
knowledge, both practical and research-based.
She says: "Many traditional cultures knew that, with both
hands free for other activities, a parent can carry baby around
longer, promoting deeper bonding. It frees the hand for myriad
daily activities, such as attending to other siblings, which
modifies sibling rivalry. University medical research (at
Tulane, Columbia, McGill, etc) on the type of sling I have
developed shows reduced colic, better circulation, muscle
tone, respiration, digestion and sleep; better uptake of infant
cues by both mothers and fathers; advanced motor development;
notable language and environmental assimilation; and much
else.
"When an infant is tense, the movement of being carried in
the sling will help them to breastfeed better and fall asleep.
As anyone who wears a sling (properly, I should add) can tell
you, crying and fussing are hugely reduced. The practical
benefits are immense. For example, we have a great advantage
over prams and pushers. Barry and I save hours in crowded
places and in general. Especially in these hard times, a sling
can save a lot of money .
"The Baba Sling can be used from birth up to even four years
old. It has seven easy to use positions, being: Reclining
Hammocked position, which is especially good for newborns,
sleeping and breastfeeding babies. This position totally supports
the young and soft developing hips, spine and head of infants.
Mounting evidence strongly suggests that babies should not
be put into the weight-bearing position, which is an upright
harness type position, before they are ready. That is, when
they sit up by themselves. As you can imagine, wearing a baby
profoundly supports their exterogestation (out of the womb)
development. Even a baby wearing Dad can provide this almost
in utero experience! Wearing baby in a Sling hugely enhances
the flows of the nurturing mothering hormone, prolactin, which
in turn greatly aids breastfeeding and bonding. Once baby
can sit up, you can employ the Sitting Upright position, either
facing towards you or away. On the Hip (without jutting out
of the hip). On the Back, for older babies and children -
very useful for chores such as cooking, laundry ...
"Our aim at Baba Slings is to serve others with a highly superior
product. Eventually to sponsor some wonderful causes. One
cherished desire is to provide no-cost and low-cost slings
to parents and carers in real need. Further important aspects
are fair price, and dedicated, free after-purchase support
with advice and tips." Shanti has her Baba Slings at Eumundi
market (saturday) on the Sunshine Coast, and The Riverside
Market in Brisbane (Sunday).
Shanti
McIvor
Baba Slings
599 Hunchy Rd
Hunchy 4555
QLD Australia
Ph: (61) 07 54429 597
E-mail: babaslings@beachaccess.com.au
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