Carrying a Big Newborn

[MissPrint]

I had always envisoned wearing my son non-stop but I found after his birth that I had a great deal of trouble finding a sling to "fit" that supported his head.

He was 57cm at birth and was "too long" for most of the carriers, pouches and slings that I tried... I even went into the shops to get advice and left very disappointed. I was hoping to get some advice on chosing a carrier (hopefully) next time around. I'll also mention that I'm 6' and a slim build...

Was I not choosing the right carrier or was it me who didn't fully understanding how to wear it correctly? Also, what would be the best carrier/sling for a 9month+ bubba?

[hanabi]

Have you tried a back carrier like an Ergo or Patapum?

I loved using a wrap with my last baby - lots of options and I had fun practising all the different ways of wearing her.

[timestwo]

I tried to use a sling with my DS when he was newborn but also had trouble with getting comfy (he is still very long) We are looking at wrapping as it seems more flexiable with lots of different ways of wearing your bubba. Goodluck with your search. You might want to take a look at
www.baby-carriers-downunder.com
I joined their group, they have some really good links and advice

[Nyree]

I was wondering if you'd tried a wrap like a hug-a-bub? The head can tuck under the shoulder strap until they have good head control & there are plenty of positions to try.

[~twiddlebug~]

I'd suggest a soft structured carrier (brands like the patapum, ergo and the lovely yamo)
or a non-stretchy wrap for your 9 month old. Either will be great for front or back carries, and with a long baby back carries will be more comfortable.

For a bigger newborn, a slightly stretchy wrap like the moby is preferable to the very stretchy hugabub. The moby is wider and able to be used for much bigger babes and is suitable for back carries. As a bonus, it's about half the price of the hab

What kind of carriers did you try? Structured ones like the baby bjorn, ring slings??

[kadownie]

My bubba was quite big and long- I used a pouch for a few weeks- but then it was too hard- then we used a wrap and haven't looked back. I just sewed one myself- they are quite expensive to buy- it's basically just a 5 metre length of fabric..by 70cms hemmed. (thanks liamsmum!) I would love to buy one now as I know that we would use it all the time!

[justincredible]

i love my non stretch wrap for my giant baby.
i do use a mei tai and an ergo as well at times now when out and about, but always rely on the wrap for long trips out.

check out these: http://karritreelane.com/store/index...od&productId=9
I have one and I totally love love love it!

[MissPrint]

I did have a baby bjorn style one with my DD but wanted to get a pouch this time round - at least while he was (supposedly) small I think it was the peanut shell that I tried, at least that's the only brand that rings a bell.

I saw all the fabric wrap type carriers and was absolutely bamboozled! I have seen the ergo and thought it would be better for older children - might give that one a go. Is it easy to use, or does it take a bit of practice?

[Marmee]

Personally, I find the ergo best after bubs is about 6 months old.

I love wraps for newborns - be they big or small

[sling_dad]

I don't think you should feel discouraged b/c you got bad advice about carriers from baby stores. That's very common. Most baby stores don't carry the good carriers because most good carriers have a low margin and need a lot of support pre- and post-sales (a skill which most employees don't have). Your best bet would be to look online and meet up with some knowledgeable babywearers in your area who can help you choose the right carrier(s) for your need. There are many excellent carriers out there for both a big newborn and a 9mo. Try the group in my sig.