Happy New Year!

We have a special offer to keep you all cosy for the New Year!  Throughout January, we are offering the Peekaru Original^TM warm vest at 25% off!

The Peekaru Original^TM by Together Be, is a fleece vest that zips over you while you’re wearing a soft baby carrier, to keep you and your child warm. Made from 85% recylcled Polartec fleece, it’s also an environmentally sound choice.

• Fits over any soft baby carrier with child in upright position.
• Soft stretchy material that fits over your baby from birth through toddlerhood.
• Made from 85% recycled high quality Polartec fleece.
• Works wonderfully under your coat if you wish.
• Side zipper for easy on and off without scratching your baby.

Read more about it, or buy the Peekaru Original^TM warm vest here.

Also, I just wanted to let you know, we’ve still got a few more wraps and slings on sale for 45% off! This is below cost, so if you need a baby carrier or need to buy a baby shower gift, you don’t want to miss this opportunity to get a Maya Wrap Lightly Padded Ring Sling or a Wrap ‘n Wear Cotton Baby Wrap.

Remember, if your product is being shipped to a Canadian address, you can also redeem a coupon for FR.EE SHIPPING!  That’s an additional savings of $15.00!  Of course shipping to continental USA is always free.

Best wishes for 2010!

~Shannon

If you haven’t already checked out the sale on Maya Wrap Lightly Padded Ring Slings and Wrap ‘N Wear Baby Wraps, you’d better hurry – there aren’t very many left!

You won’t find a better price online for brand new baby carriers!

Go to Lullaby Baby Carriers now and get one while supplies last!

Wrap 'n Wear Baby Wrap

Maya Wrap Lightly Padded Ring Sling

With the winter holidays just around the corner, I’ve decided to massively drop the prices on two of my favorite baby carriers! From now through December you can get 45% off:

the Maya Wrap Lightly Padded Ring Sling

Maya Wrap Ring Sling

or the Wrap ‘n Wear Cotton Baby Wrap.

Wrap 'n Wear Baby Wrap

I only have a small number of overstocked items available at this price, so if you’re interested, you might want to hurry over to Lullaby Baby Carriers to see what’s available!

And if your product is being shipped to a Canadian address, you can also redeem a coupon for FREE SHIPPING!  That’s an additional savings of $15.00!  Of course, continental US addresses still receive free shipping automatically.

If you need a carrier, or know someone who does, you might want to check this out!

Claim Your Special Offer Here!

Baby Wrap

Your tiny newborn needs constant assurance that you are there for her.  Your presence and your touch reassure her that she is safe and loved. But sometimes carrying a fretful or colicky baby can drain your energy especially if you have other things to do during the day.  The solution?  A baby wrap.

Babies who are frequently carried and cuddled are happier and they grow up confident and independent.  They cry less and are healthier than babies who are not often carried by their parents.  A baby wrap keeps your little one close to your body, where she’s warm and secure and it’s easy to wear, so it is perfect for both of you.

A baby wrap also makes it easier for Dads to bond with their infants because it is no longer scary for them to carry a tiny infant. Yes, some dads are scared of carrying their newborn infants for fear they might harm the precious cargo.  Wrap baby carriers are made from stretchy or non-stretchy material and can be tied to securely support the child in a number of different positions, depending on age and preference.  Because you can adjust the tension and “snugness” of the carrier, you need not worry about dropping the baby.

With a wrap, you can adjust your babywearing style as your child grows older.  For a newborn up to five months old, it is best to carry baby on your front.  In this position, newborns will have their knees drawn up. As the child grows older you can adjust the wrap for side or back carrying.

You can wear baby beautifully in multiple ways.  Front, back, facing out, or facing in, you can also carry a child weighing up to 40 lbs.  With the right length of wrap you can carry your bundle of joy in many ways from day one until toddlerhood.

A baby wrap has none of the buckles and rings that can be uncomfortable after long periods of carrying the baby.  It is easy on your shoulders and back and the wide swath of cloth on your shoulders secures the child’s weight.  Wrapped around your torso, their weight is distributed evenly over your hips, making it easier on your back. The long length of cloth gives you a sense of security because you wrap it around your torso and shoulders and tie it to secure its hold on the baby.

Bonding with your baby is one of the tenets of Attachment Parenting and the first step to help your child become well-adjusted. Because she is always with a mobile parent, your child’s primal need to survive is met and she learns to socialize much younger.  Since she is carried all the time in an upright position, the baby’s head will not be at risk of the flattening deformation that can occur with infants who spend a lot of time laying down flat or in a carseat, bouncy chair or stroller.

A baby wrap does not work only for your child’s benefit.  It gives you and your partner more flexibility when caring for your baby and strengthens the bond between you and your child.

I’ve decided to implement a new special every month.

The month of November is a CuddlyWrap™ promotion!

I’m really excited about this because the baby wrap is by far my favourite baby carrier.  You can use it from birth (even preemie!) right through to toddler, and it can be worn in so many different positions – probably a dozen – you’ll certainly find a few that work great for you as your child grows.  It’s such great value!

So, here’s the deal… When you buy a CuddlyWrap™ you can get a set of organic cotton burp cloths, or an organic cotton baby blanket (or both) at HALF PRICE!

Plus, these items now qualify for FREE SHIPPING within Canada, so the savings on all three items plus shipping to Canada would be about $75.00!

Of course, free shipping always applies to continental USA.

If you’re in the market for a great baby carrier, or you’re looking for the perfect gift, this could be just what you need.  See what people are saying about the CuddlyWrap™ baby wrap or read the details of the CuddlyWrap™ features and benefits.

Happy November!

We’ve just added a new Canadian Manufacturer to the Lullaby Baby Carriers lineup of great products!

Peapod Creations has a great stretch-cotton baby wrap called the CuddlyWrap™, which is a completely ergonomic, hands-free baby carrier offering the ultimate in comfort for both you and baby.  It’s suitable for premature/newborn infants through to toddlers – no age, weight, or carrying time restrictions!  I think you’ll love this baby wrap – we do!

Perhaps even more exciting is that we’re able to offer the Pink CuddlyWrap™ for the Cure!  Peapod Creations® is a partnership of four women and one of their core values  is to give back to the community by contributing to organizations that support women.

Every woman has been touched by breast cancer at some point in her life – either personally, within her immediate family, or her wider circle of extended relatives and friends.

Peapod Creations has partnered with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation and makes a direct donation for every pink CuddlyWrap for the Cure purchased. In addition, $5.00 from the consumer purchase price – the consumer’s donation – also goes to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.

For more information on the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation please visit www.cbcf.org or call toll-free 1-866-302-CBCF (2223).

In addition to the CuddlyWrap™, Peapod Creations® also offers organic cotton burp cloths and a beautiful organic cotton blanket.

To find out what other people are saying, check out some Peapod Creations reviews.

Don’t forget, there’s FREE SHIPPING to both Canada and the United States for these products, and they make great gifts! Check them out today on our Lullaby Baby Carriers store!

TESTIMONIAL: Wrap ‘n Wear Baby Carrier

“I love the Wrap n’ Wear baby carrier.  It’s really light-weight and breathes well so my baby and I can be close and snug, without either of us getting over-heated.  It’s also perfect for someone like me who tends to have back problems: the baby’s weight is evenly distributed so there’s no strain on my back or shoulders.  The best part is how versatile it is – it works for newborns and toddlers and all ages in between because there are so many carrying positions.  My baby and I are still discovering new ones.”

~Erin B., Paris, France

With so many great baby carriers on the market today, it can certainly be difficult to choose the one that’s best for you and your child.  This article presents a series of questions to help you narrow down your choices.

What is most comfortable for you?

It’s important to consider your personal comfort first when deciding on a baby carrier; after all, if you’re not comfortable with it you probably won’t use it. There are certainly enough babywearing options available to find one that meets both you and your baby’s needs.

First you need to ask whether you prefer the baby’s weight to be balanced over both shoulders or just one. Many people like the quick and easy one-shoulder sling, whereas others need the baby’s weight to be distributed evenly over both shoulders to be comfortable.

Also, if more than one parent will be using the carrier, you may want to look for one that can be adjusted quickly and easily; some baby carriers are sized to fit only one wearer.

How much time will you spend learning how to use it?

If you’re committed to spending some time mastering a baby wrap, it is by far the most versatile carrier, accommodating multiple positions and age ranges.  However, many people would prefer something quicker and easier like simple baby carriers slings.

What stage or age is your child?

Some baby carriers are more suitable for carrying newborns and even for breast feeding, while others, which distribute weight differently or allow for back-carrying, may work better for older children.

You might prefer to invest in two carriers to meet different needs and ages, or perhaps you are hoping to find one that is designed for use from birth through to toddler.  Some carriers, such as the baby wrap, are more flexible than others, offering various carrying positions designed for use from birth through to toddler.

What will you use your baby carrier for?

Are you looking for a carrier to run quick errands, pick up older children from school, or for discreet hands-free nursing? In these cases, baby carriers slings may be a good choice because they are easy to get on and off as needed and are best for breastfeeding.

If you plan to carry your child during longer periods such as while shopping, hiking or working, then baby carriers backpacks, which support your child’s weight over two-shoulders or displace some of the weight to your hips may be a better option.

Do you have more than one child or a fussy child that would require a variety of carrying positions?  A baby carrier that is easily adjustable may be most important to you.

Size and portability are another consideration.  Do you need it to fit in your purse for quick and frequent access, or are you going to wear it for long periods of time when size is less of an issue?

What is your budget?

Obviously, cost may affect some parents’ choice of baby carriers, but you can still get a great carrier on a small budget.  Simple ring or pouch slings will be more affordable than baby carriers backpacks and you’ll still get all the benefits of babywearing.

If your budget allows for more, you can splurge on luxury designs and fabrics, or even purchase more than one baby carrier for different activities or different stages of your child’s growth. While this may sound extravagant, if you consider the high cost of a luxury stroller, two baby carriers are a relatively small investment.  Moreover, many parents find they end up using their baby carriers more than they expected – for some, even more than their stroller.

What is your style preference?

Do you have a penchant for a certain carrier style, fabric or print?  If you’re uncertain about your ability to master the tying techniques of a baby wrap, you may opt for a sling. Or perhaps you love the traditional look of a Mai Tai baby carrier. Whatever your inclination, you’ll certainly be able to find a carrier that will suit your needs for practicality, comfort and style.

What should you look for in a soft carrier?

• Strong and completely washable fabric
• Well finished seams and stress-points where the straps fasten to the pack
• Ease of use and good fit
• Heavy duty fasteners such as rings or buckles
• Easily adjustable to fit a growing baby
• A means to support baby’s head

What should you look for in rigid framed baby carriers backpacks ?

• Thick shoulder pads
• Padded hip belt to redistribute the weight from your shoulders to your hips
• A comfortable seat design for baby – doesn’t force baby’s legs apart or have the seat below the leg holes, which may cut off circulation
• Sturdy seat belt to prevent baby from standing up in the carrier
• Padding on the front rail to protect baby’s face from the carrier frame as you walk
• Sturdy stretch-resistant, easy to clean fabric, with reinforced seams at stress points
• A storage section on the back or base of the pack
• A support stand to help you load the baby in the pack and set them down again

Is there a “perfect” baby carrier?

All styles of baby carriers have their advantages and disadvantages and unfortunately no single carrier serves every purpose perfectly. After considering your own needs you simply have to select the one that suits you best. Try not to get too hung up on finding the perfect baby carrier. Just relax and enjoy the lifetime of benefits that come from wearing your baby close to you.

With so many varieties of baby carriers on the market today, it can be overwhelming for new parents to determine which one is the best choice for them.  The reality is that each carrier has its advantages and disadvantages and most are geared towards a specific baby stage and type of use, so buying the “wrong” one for you can be a real disappointment.  Using a carrier that’s aimed for use with an infant for toting a toddler will likely be cumbersome and even painful, or using a bigger toddler type carrier could be unsafe for an infant.  These are obviously extreme examples, but in this article you will learn the subtle differences between different carriers that may become the deciding factor on what’s right for you.

Nearly all child carriers on the market fall into one of these 5 categories:

• Baby Wraps (Stretch or Woven)
• Baby Slings (Pouch or Ring)
• Mei Tai Baby Carriers
• Soft Structured Baby Carriers
• Framed Backpack Carriers

Baby Wraps

A baby wrap is definitely the least structured baby carrier on the market, and perhaps surprisingly, it’s also the most versatile by far.  It is made quite simply from a swath of cotton fabric, typically a long rectangular strip although some are square, that is tied around parent and child and secured with a knot.  There are unlimited ways to tie a wrap that allow your child to be carried in any position you like.  While it takes a little practice to learn the different ways to tie one, you shouldn’t be intimidated by this, as one tying method could be used for 3 or 4 different carrying positions, so if you’re not interested in learning more than that you’ve still got a very versatile carrier.  Wraps provide exceptional comfort for both parent and child, even with heavy toddlers, as the child’s weight can be evenly distributed over both shoulders and hips.  Another bonus is that one size will typically fit any adult.

There are two main types of baby wraps available – one is stretchy and the other is not.  Both are typically made of 100% cotton, which is great for comfort and breathability.  A stretch wrap is made with a cotton jersey fabric, like a high-quality t-shirt material, whereas the non-stretch wrap is made of sturdier woven cotton.

Stretch Wraps

The stretch cotton wrap is most ideally used with a newborn or light baby (under 25 lbs) because it can stretch out of shape as you move around with a heavier child.  With a light baby though, this wrap is perfect for a swaddling effect as it really snugs your little one close.  The fabric is very soft and the stretch makes it incredibly comfortable for both the parent and child.  It’s also more forgiving for new wrap users because if you tie it too tight or too loose, you can usually reposition your baby or the wrap without having to re-tie it, and you can get the baby in and out easier too.

Woven Wraps

The non-stretch or woven wrap is really the workhorse of the two because you’ll get so much more use out of it.  Since it is so supportive, it can be used for babies right through to toddlerhood (up to 40 lbs).  It does take a little more practice than the stretch wrap to master, but in the long run, it is so worthwhile.  And remember, just one basic tying method will allow for a few different carrying positions, or try your hand at a few more and you’ve got unlimited options.  This wrap is much more effective for back carries than the stretch wrap because it won’t sag with a heavier child.

Strengths

• very comfortable for both baby and adult
• most versatile, with unlimited carrying positions
• easily adapts to various baby weights and sizes
• one size usually fits any adult
• keeps baby warm in cool weather

Weaknesses

• requires some practice to be efficient at tying
• can be warm in the summer

Baby Slings

While the wrap is the least structured, the baby sling is the least complicated.  It is sleek, compact and absolutely easy to use.  Its simplicity is likely the reason that it’s one of the most popular carriers.  You can put it on and take it off just like a shoulder bag worn across the chest.  Your child can be easily placed in or taken out as often as you please, and the compact sling can be tucked in your purse or diaper bag.  A baby sling is a sure favourite for newborns and for hands-free nursing – every new mom should have one to ease into life with a baby.

Ring Slings

Ring slings are made from a length of sturdy fabric pulled through two rings which are fastened to the end.  The pouch that is formed in the loop of fabric is where your baby sits.  The size of the sling is easily adjusted by pulling the fabric through the rings to tighten or loosen the pouch.  This simple adjustability allows for any sized adult to carry the child in multiple positions.  Some ring slings have a padded shoulder for the adult, or padded edge “rails” for the comfort of the child’s legs, and many have a pocket sewn into the tail of fabric that is left from being pulled through the rings.  The pocket is useful for carrying small extras and the tail can be used for sun protection or discreet nursing.

Pouch Slings

Pouch slings are quite certainly as simple as a carrier can be.  They are made from a circle of fabric that is folded in half and sewn together at the ends to make a pouch.  They are usually fitted to the adult who will be using it, but some are invisibly adjustable to allow for sharing the sling or resizing it as your child grows.

Strengths

• completely simple to use
• the most compact – it will easily fit in a purse or diaper bag
• perfect for the newborn stage – easy transition from womb to sling
• easy to get baby in and out
• easiest for hands-free nursing
• pouch style has no extra tail of fabric to figure out; ring style has a tail that can be used for a nursing cover or sun shade

Weaknesses

• Size is important in a pouch sling; ring slings make sizing easier, but require adjusting with each use.
• only one-shouldered support – less comfortable for extended wearing or for heavier babies
• a pouch is less versatile for carrying positions

Mei Tai Baby Carriers

The soft, stylish Mei Tai baby carrier is easy to use and comfortable with even the heaviest babies.  The modern Mei Tai is based on traditional Asian baby carriers. A Mei Tai is constructed with a small rectangular panel of fabric and long straps to go around the waist and over the shoulders. The long straps make it adjustable to fit almost any adult, so it is easily shared between caregivers, and allows for many carrying positions depending on how you tie it.  You can wear your child on your back, front or hip, tucked in or propped up to look around.

Strengths

• Great for back carrying a young baby (less than one year)
• weight is evenly distributed over both shoulders and hips
• very supportive
• very versatile, offering many carrying positions
• can be used front and back with a newborn to toddler (40 lbs)
• higher resale value

Weaknesses

• not as much padding as structured carriers (can be an advantage if you want less bulk)
• long straps may drag on ground while tying (difficult in wet weather)

Soft Structured Baby Carriers

If you add a few buckles, snaps and some extra padding to a Mei Tai, you’ll have a soft pack structured baby carrier.  This carrier is great to use for longer periods of time, as the weight is usually distributed across both shoulders and hips – however, some do not have a waist belt, which results in all the weight being carried on your shoulders.  Since newborns need more support for head and neck, a structured soft pack carrier is better for an older baby with head control.  The combination of comfort and simplicity has resulted in mainstream appeal among parents.

Strengths

• easy to use
• ergonomic – most have weight distributed to hips
• very supportive
• Dads love it
• high resale value

Weaknesses

• not usually recommended for newborns without head control (under 3 months)
• does not fold compact
• can be more expensive due to the amount of workmanship

Framed Backpack Carriers

Framed Backpack baby carriers are the most structured and supportive design of baby carriers. Inspired by hiking backpacks, they feature padded shoulder straps and stiff waist/hip belts, adjustable nylon straps, and lots of buckles that can be adjust on the fly for the perfect fit.  This is the Cadillac of baby carriers.  Ideal for long hikes or a walk about town, this backpack can be used to carry children weighing 40 lbs or more.

Strengths

• easy to use
• ergonomic – weight is evenly distributed between hips and shoulders
• the most supportive for both adult and child
• the ultimate in comfort for long periods of wear
• a favourite with Dads
• high resale value

Weaknesses

• not recommended for babies without full head control (under 4-5 months)
• does not fold compact
• expensive due to the level of workmanship