help out a toddler wearer with AS?

[nicolehastie]

Hi

I live in Cheltenham but work in Bristol and would really love to meet some experienced baby wearers. I have a beautiful 2 yr old daughter who loves to be worn :)) . But she weighs the same as a 3 or 4 yr old and I have an arthritic condition called AS (don't ask me to spell it please, if you are curious google it!) which gives me severe joint pain and stiffness. Wearing her on my hip is now beyond my capabilities and I am hoping that maybe learning back carries (if she's willing of course :P ) would give us a few more months.

If you do meet up regularly, can I pop along with her and see what you can teach me? I'd be so grateful. I've watched DVDs, been on forums and chats the world over and I just don't have the confidence without someone to spot me the first time. Then I can teach DH to be my spotter (for some reason he refuses to wear my bright purple kari-me! :D )

Many thanks

Nicole

PS We are off to New York in October, I'd love to use the sling some of the time round Manhattan rather than a buggy.

[brooklyn]

Hi Nicole

welcome to Sling Meet, I'm sorry to hear about your dd's pain. We'll find someone locally who can help you. I've emailed Becky (bigmamaslings) to alert her to your post.

Do you know the Baby Wearer (http://www.thebabywearer.com/forum/), the forum has tons of info on specific issues like yours.

There are a few slings specifically designed for older children.
I know the toddler version of the colibri baby mei tai as been specifically designed for older children. Lauren has closed her shop but they can be found on For Sale or Trade boards sometimes. I would also be happy to email her to see if she would be ok making one for you.
http://www.colibribaby.com/

There is also the toddler papatum, http://www.littlepossums.co.uk/slings/soft-slings.htm#patapumtoddler
I have no experience with it but feel free to contact Phil at Little Possums, she is super nice.

Enjoy your trip to NY, I'm sure you'll have lots of fun!

[bigmamaward]

Hi Nicole

I am always happy for people to come around and play with my slings :D If you'd like to drop me an email I'm sure we can arrange something. There hasn't been a big group meet-up yet but I'm sure in the future things will happen; in the meantime I'm sure we can fix you up with something before your trip.

Becky