Here are some answers to some of the most common queries about the Building Bonds Project and baby carriers.
General queries about the Project.
How do I apply?
Please use our referral form here.
How do I refer someone?
Please use our client referral form here.
How do I refer my sling library client?
Please use our client referral form here.
What are the referral criteria?
Please see the criteria here.
How can I get involved?
We’d love to work with you! Please see our “get involved” pages here.
I no longer need my sling, what can I do?
The sling belongs to you; so you can do whatever you wish with it. You may opt to donate it to someone else or return it to us so we can give it to another family.
Questions about using your sling.
1) Can I use a sling from birth?
Yes, you can. Newborn babies need to be held high and tight to be safe. We have carriers that will do this for you and we will show you how to use it and keep your baby secure.
2) Will it hurt my back?
Your sling should be comfortable and should not hurt your back or shoulders. If it does, please contact the team to check if any adjustments can be made to make it feel better.
3) How do I keep my baby safe in the sling?
The main thing to remember is that baby must be able to breathe easily at all times with nothing blocking the airway. Baby should always be held high up and tight. Baby should be close enough to kiss.
Make sure your baby is not too hot in the sling. Babies can get warm quickly and fall asleep. Sleepy babies can slump over and can have breathing problems.
Please see some more safety guidelines here.
4) I am worried how to keep my baby from getting too hot, or too cold in the sling. What should I do?
In cold weather, dress your baby to be comfortable in the place you will be spending most of your time in (indoors or outdoors). Use several thin layers rather than thick snowsuits. The sling can count as one layer, if it is thick, it can feel like more. Add a warm coat over you both in cold outdoor weather so you can open the coat to cool down.
In hot weather, make sure baby’s arms and legs are protected from the sun with cool thin clothes, and remember the sling adds layers. Keep your baby well hydrated.
5) My baby feels too low in the sling. How do I get her higher up?
Try lifting your baby (and the sling) up to where you want him to rest against you. This will be the natural in-arms height you use. This will show you where the carrier straps are loose and can be tightened to hold baby more tightly and safely in that position.
6) My sling is no longer comfortable, what can I do?
Please contact the Project team. We can look at how the sling is fitting and make any adjustments needed. If the sling is no longer working for you and your child we will replace it with one that suits you both better.
8) How long can my baby be in the sling for?
Your child can be in the sling as long as they are comfortable, and as long as all their other needs are met. Babies will need to be fed frequently. When they are very small and sleepy they may need to be woken for feeds. They will need to have their nappies changed. All babies need the chance to practice moving around. If your baby wants to get down and it is safe for them to do so, it is good to let them learn how to use their bodies.
9) When can I start to back carry my baby?
If your baby is well and developing normally, we would often suggest at sitting up age. Please contact us if your child has extra needs and back carrying would be useful.