As a new mama it can be so overwhelming to know which baby products are ABSOLUTELY necessary and which are the “fluff”. For example: I thought we absolutely needed a portable changing pad. Nope. I usually end up changing him wherever is convenient, my lap, the seat of the car, trunk … you get creative. I was sure I would need about a million baby seats, one for every room in the house. This one vibrates! That one bounces! We have one that sways side to side! Now my home is scattered with so many baby chairs I’m not quite sure what to do with them. A bottle warmer, baby wipe warmer, baby bath… the list goes on and on.
My Wildbird ring sling, on the other hand, is something I didn’t think I needed from the get-go. Boy was I wrong! I honestly couldn’t live without it. It’s my go-to when Ezra is fussy or tired while we’re out n’ about or even at home. He will be content or even asleep right away. I have used it to nurse him while on the go. The extra “tail” left over is a perfect nursing cover.
I have been using my Wildbird sling since he was just tiny, and now that he’s older he loves being able to sit on my hip to see what I’m doing! Not to mention he is the most cuddly little guy! (I hope he stays this way forever!)
Now let’s back it up with some cold hard facts:
Carried babies cry less. In a study published by the Journal of Pediatrics, researchers found that babywearing for three hours a day reduced infant crying by 43 percent overall and 54 percent during evening hours*. Babies thrive through touch!
Proper babywearing helps promote optimal brain, hip, spine, eye, social and emotional development. When a baby is worn in the sling he/she becomes aware of the wearer’s movements. This stimulation helps baby to regulate his/her own physical responses and exercises baby’s vestibular system, which controls balance.
Research has also shown that premature babies who are touched and held gain weight faster and are healthier than babies who are not**. Babywearing has so many benefits for not only baby but the wearer as well. Wearing your baby has shown to reduce stress hormones in new mamas which help fight postpartum depression. The wearer has two hands free which enables the wearer to get chores done, shop, or play with other children.
Q: Why should I use a sling ring?
A: Ring slings are the easiest way to wear your baby (no wrapping or buckling). After a few times of practice, getting your baby in and out of the sling will become second nature. See our tutorials.
Q: Why is the sling made out of linen?
A: Linen is made from flax. Flax is one of the strongest natural fibers. It is three times stronger than cotton. Linen is a woven fabric that never loses it shape. It is also highly recommended for children and adults due to a non-allergic feature which makes it a great microclimate for skin. In addition, linen is the most suitable fabric for hot summer climates because of it’s cooling and refreshing effect. On the other hand it has a warming effect in winter. How? Flax absorbs sudden temperature changes and has outstanding moisture absorbency. Linen also protects skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
Q: Are ring slings safe?
A: Yes! Our greatest concern is you and your baby’s safety. Wildbird slings are made from the highest quality aluminum rings available. Each tested to ensure your child’s safety. Use the sling properly and please study and practice the tips on the safety page.
Q: Are your rings certified?
A: Yes, our rings and manufacturing process are RoHS compliant. The rings are made from seamless aluminum which is heavy metal and toxin free. General certification of compliance with the CPSC/CPSIA can be made able by request.
Q: What do I do with the tail end of the sling?
A : You can simply leave the tail hanging or wrap it around the rings to get it out of the way. The tail can also be used as a nursing cover or sunshade.
Q: Is the sling portable?
A : Yes, it can easily fit inside a diaper bag or purse.
Q. Where are your slings made?
A : They are made in Salt Lake City, Utah.
So cuddle up close to that little babe!! It’s good for your baby and good for your soul. 🙂
** FAQ’s and research data taken from Wildbird website.
Ok now I’m thinking I need one. Even though I already have three carriers haha! This one seems so right. And I looove these shots!
Wish I could have had one with my boys, I loved to hold and cuddle them so much! That was SO long ago, all that I had for them seems from the stone age!
This little sling is so cute! And Ezra is adorable 🙂 I was wondering, who takes your pictures when you are IN them? I’m a fellow blogger looking for some help, but I wasn’t sure if I needed a photographer or not? Any tips?
Hi Zoe!!
Thanks for your comment! Not sure how I missed this one. These photos were taken by the Wildbird photographer. Many of the others on this site are by my sister, Erin Fonnesbeck Photography. BUT most of them, if just everyday shots, my dear husband shoots with my iphone. He does a pretty good job and puts up with my micromanagement… and there is usually a lot of editing involved afterward.
Is it just a trick of light that the rings on yours look a little brown/bronzey? I thought all the wildbird rings were black, but I like how they look a little more neutral to match, in your photos.
Thanks much!
No, you’re right. The rings are bronzey… this is one of their very first slings… if not their first. They did the brownish ring on the first few.
Oh, darn. Luck you, though! I prefer a softer color like matte bronze or silver, than the stark black that contrasts with the earth tones. Oh well, they’re still pretty slings all the same! 🙂