BabaSling founders, Daniel Lucas and Heath O'Connor, took the decision to donate theBabaSling to the NCT's Antenatal Teachers, as a tool to help facilitate discussion around the benefits of babywearing, or ‘Kangaroo care'. Samples of theBabaSling will be distributed to NCT Antenatal Teachers across the UK for use in classes, held for both mothers and fathers pre-birth.

Vicky McNicholas, Commercial Director for New Business, says: "We like the style of theBabaSling, the ethics of the company, and that as a product it's really adjustable, making it easy to use by both parents".

"This donation allows the NCT another opportunity of providing parents with information about the benefits of babywearing so they can make their own informed choice."

‘Dad Gear'

The versatility of theBabaSling - it can be adjusted to support the baby in seven different positions using the chunky straps and buckles - makes it ideal for dads to get close to their young baby.

"theBabaSling is a bit of ‘dad gear', it's easy to use but it looks technical and because babies tend to be calm and settled in a sling, it's a good way for dads to bond with their children," says Vicky McNicholas.

Different approach

The design of theBabaSling takes a different approach to standard upright carriers. It can be used from birth to toddler in a number of different positions, allowing parents the freedom to carry their baby during any stage of his or her development.

Far from being restrictive, as many people think, baby carrying frees the parent's hands to do other things and makes going out and about easy and spontaneous.

"Research shows that carrying an infant regularly in a properly-designed sling such as theBabaSling reduces daytime crying by 43 per cent and night crying by 51 per cent," says Daniel Lucas.

The points to look for when choosing a sling are:

• Over-the-shoulder facility to support newborns in a horizontal position, exactly as they were in the womb. This is good for the baby's spine, great for bonding and perfect for breastfeeding mums;
• Upright facility for use once the baby is able to hold up his or her head (around 4-6 months), enabling the baby to look around and interact with mum or dad;
• Adjustable straps with secure buckles to enable the sling to be worn safely by different sized adults.

More information on International Babywearing Week: http://babywearinginternational.org/

Hotline: 0800 310 1547

http://www.thebabasling.co.uk/