slings, walking and summer

[justonesherryformedicinalpurpo]

I don't drive and tend to walk to most places with DD in pram which is usually 30-60mins walking without break.

Baby 2 is due in August and once I start getting out again I'd like to put baby 2 in sling and push my daughter in the pram. Can I easily have baby in the sling for as long as that or will I find it knackering? And I'm also worried about baby overheating as it will be hot when I start using it plus I'll be getting a bit sweaty from walking.. what do you think?

I will probably be wearing baby 2 a lot in the house and would like to outside too.

[UmbongoUnchained]

How old is your first child?

[randomsabreuse]

Only got the one but use sling instead of pram

I don't find long (hour plus) hilly walks that bad - and have done long days out with sling walking most of the time. But you have to keep doing it and you get used to the weight as it gradually increases. Make sure the sling fits you both well.

Heat wise - minimise clothing on baby (and you) - they are like a little hot water bottle!

There are soft structured carriers that are designed for hot weather - connecta air iirc and I think the woven slings are lighter than the stretchy ones.

[welshweasel]

Sounds entirely reasonable. My DS loves the sling and I'll go walking for a couple of hours with him in. He does get hot so I dress him lightly. Even when he was born (January) I'd only have him in a baby grow and booties. In summer you might have to put your baby just in a vest. Popping a Muslin on your chest between you and the baby can help limit sweatiness. Also pick a sling that's lightweight and breathable. I used stretchy wraps a lot in winter but not ideal now it's warmer. Something that allows he air to circulate would be better!

[justonesherryformedicinalpurpo]

umbongo my daughter will be 18m when baby 2 arrives.

Thanks all for the fantastic tips! I feel a lot better about using one now so thank you.

[UmbongoUnchained]

Brilliant. Just wanted to know as was going to suggest you might find it easier to carry her on your back instead. I overheat very easily but still carry my 20 month old on my back in a connecta and don't get too hot that way. I then push my friends baby in the pram when I look after him, as I find having little ones on the chest just makes me too hot.

[justonesherryformedicinalpurpo]

Ah okay that's interesting, I never thought about that. It's good to have that as an option so thanks for your suggestion umbongo

[UmbongoUnchained]

No problem :). My connecta will carry my daughter till she's about 4 so definitely get my money's worth. It's a toddler one so by the time your new baby is big enough to go into it your older one probably won't need it anymore.

[justonesherryformedicinalpurpo]

Wow you are going to have one he'll of a strong back! Thanks again :)