A different baby carrier/sling

[hildathebuilder]

I have been lent a Kari-me sling, and been using it for a month. Both the neighbour who lent it me, and another neighbour swore by it but neither DH or I are sure its right for us. We are now very adept at tying it and even getting DS into it, but as often as not he hates it. He is very small still - he was prem and is still only 8lb, but wants to look around more and does not seem to like the closeness of the carry. Also I find it does not mean I can get on with things as I thought I might be able to, as it is beginning to hurt my back a little if I wear it for more than about 45 minutes to an hour (essential to both cook and eat a decent meal with my DH of an evening when DS is colicky). So what else should we try? We will want to be able to have DS in a sling around the house but also ideally out and about in town as well as out in the country going walking etc which is something we did a lot before DS was born. Any suggestions?

Hi Hilda, if your back aches then you need to adjust the fabric that crosses on your back so that the cross is closer to your bottom. (I hope that makes sense).

Also, if your son want's to see why not give carry me a call to see if it would be apprpriate to have him face outwards. (I think this is OK after 3 or 6 months) but if you speak to them they'll be able to advise you for your child.

HTH

You need to tie it really quite tight, that should help the pain. So will tummy exercises! Not sure about your DS being unhappy in it though, my 2 loved it and fell asleep really quickly...

The Kari is stretchy isn't it?
It does have to be tied on really tightly and crossed properly over your back and shooulders to not ache.
If you really can't get on with it (i couldn't when they were weeny) then try a mei tai (like a square with straps on each corner) which cna also be worn as a back carrier or a ring sling, but sitting up in that might be better leaving until he can hold his head up, so not until about 3 or 4months.

I have a hug-a-bub which is similar, but less stretchy. I'd second jack on tying it very tightly (so that you bulge a bit between the material!).

I have a wilkinet and found that fantastic for my babies up to 3 mo. Esp. for winding as it keeps them very upright and will do inward or outward facing and keeps them securely to you. You can get them for around a tenner on ebay, then re-sell and use your kari-me later.

I now have an ergo for my 17mo and 3yr old to share, depending on who is tired, and I love it! Just found out it doesn't do front facing at the front though, so will still be using the hug-a-bub with the toddler.