ERGO BACKPACK WHAT IS DIFFERENT FROM A KANGAROO - at what age can you carry a child in a kangaroo and an ergo backpack (sling), how to choose the right one

Both the kangaroo and the ergo backpack (aka sling) are super carriers for the baby when you need to run to the pharmacy or take a ride on public transport. They are much more comfortable than a stroller - hands are free, maneuverability is at a height. The only thing left is to choose which is better to buy: a kangaroo or a sling?

What is the difference between a kangaroo and a sling: design features

Kangaroo Features:

• Stiff back gives a load on the fragile spine. The base of the back is narrow (about 15 cm) and not always comfortable.
• Narrow shoulder straps bite into the shoulders of an adult, without attracting the child to the parent. The baby sags even when the belts are tightly tightened.
• Tapered belt practically does not distribute the load from the baby to the mother, but additionally keeps the backpack at the waist.

Ergo backpack features:

• Padded back (from 34 cm) does not fix, but takes a sitting (rounded) position of the child.
• Wide shoulder straps evenly distribute the weight over the shoulders and back of the wearer. Adjustable for optimal baby support. Tightly pull the child in the back, reducing the load on his spine. While walking, the baby is rocked and he quickly falls asleep.
• Bulky rigid belt takes on the main load, distributing the baby's weight on the mother's hips and waist. To make it more comfortable, you can loosen the belt and lower the child to the hips.

Ergo backpack or kangaroo: the convenience of a child and an adult

How does a baby in a kangaroo backpack feel?

• The baby's legs hang down, its weight resting on the perineum and lower spine. This is dangerous for a fragile spine.

Do not put in a backpack for carrying children with muscle hypertonicity, even for a short time !!!

• The child pulls the adult forward and downward. At the very least, back pain. The maximum is problems with the parent's back.
• Legs prevent the parent from moving. Difficulty moving is not everything. The adult constantly disturbs the child by clinging to his dangling legs.
• Sitting facing away from mom, the baby is unnaturally arched. For a fragile back, this is a real test.

Useful article: "Which bed is better - a pendulum or a rocking chair?"

They say a good backpack should have a hard back. I know from experience that it is not true. It's one thing when a baby curls up into a ball, like in the womb, and quite another when it is carried in a hard case.

How does a little girl in an ergo backpack feel

• The child's legs are wide apart, he half hugs his mother. The butt sags and is below the knee level. This is how we carry children in our arms. In this position, dysplasia of the hip joints does not threaten the baby.

• In the ergo, they do not sit the child away from themselves, but carry it on the back and side.
• In such positions, there is a good overview and close contact with the parent. The little girl feels safe.

At what age can a baby be carried in a kangaroo or in a sling?

Manufacturers assure: you can wear kangaroos from birth. For this, special inserts for newborns are provided. But use common sense. In order not to make problems with the baby's spine and then not reproach yourself, wear only a confidently sitting toddler in a kangaroo (from 6 months). At any age of the child, walk in the ergo for no more than 1-2 hours.

A baby can be worn in a sling from the first days of life. But even then, pay attention to its comfort - no manufacturer can know better than you what a bloodstream needs!

How to choose an ergo backpack and kangaroo

To choose the right ergo or kangaroo, pay attention to the following:

1. Natural materials and backpack color... Synthetics quickly lose their presentation - shrinks after washing, breaks.Poor quality paint sheds and causes allergies.
2. Detachable hoodwhich conveniently hides in a hidden pocket. The sleeping baby can be covered by fixing the position of the head.
3. Backpack pockets... For your convenience. You can hide napkins, which should always be at hand.
4. Collar adjustment and head support... The baby is growing rapidly, the backpack will "grow" with it. You can use it as long as you have the strength to carry the baby.

Find out: «How to choose a car seat for a child»

Let your precious burden bring only joy!