I get asked this question all the time; at first it was frustrating, but then I realized how silly it really looks with my leggy 2 year old catching a ride on my back, in what appears to most people to be a tablecloth or curtain! Silliness aside, it is what works for me. I don’t live in town, so it is not always convenient to get a sitter to run an errand, my spouse is usually not in attendance for said errands, and it is up to me to get in, get out, and get home as quickly and efficiently as possible.
I have been using baby carriers from birth with my son. You may have read in my other post that I brought Riley to work with me for a while. I got very comfortable using many types of carriers and using them every day, in public. Not everyone can say that. Not everyone can say that the ring sling is more convenient for them than the stroller. I know my child, and he will want to get out and push the cart if he is not securely imprisoned on my back in that “table cloth.
I recently had the opportunity to tackle a trip on an airplane, with my toddler, without my spouse. It was during this trip that it really hit me – I am a babywearer, through and through. I gracefully lopped my kiddo on my back, curbside in the windy 20-degree weather, as we said our goodbyes to Dad. I didn’t think twice about it! It was second nature to me, and I was confident that Riley felt secure and safe in his new environment. Heck, it helped me feel safe and secure!
So in case you see me, or another toddler/big kid wearing momma, out and about and you wonder “What the heck?” here is my breakdown of why I still use a baby carrier:
-It really is easier for me; I prefer any of my carriers (even the “fussy” ones) over a stroller with my active toddler.
-I probably intend to keep him up there for a short period of time, and no, it is not killing my back.
-It is partially a fashion statement, in my book. I bought the carrier because I liked its aesthetics, and I am going to get my money’s worth!
-My toddler likes it! He can see everything, we can chit chat, and he doesn’t get frustrated by all the things he cannot touch/push/eat/have…etc.
If you do see me, and you have any other thoughts, say “Hi!”
Different strokes for different folks is really what this all comes down to. I do not believe that I am spoiling my son by using a carrier longer than some people would deem “normal.” I am sure there is some parenting tool that you use, that makes your mother-in-law cringe. I will always reach for my carriers before a stroller, but our stroller does get plenty of love! I don’t think I will ever look back and think I should have held him less.
If you have questions about using a baby carrier check out the local Rochester and Southeast Minnesota Babywearers page on Facebook.
Keep Calm and Wear All the Babies!
