Judith took our Mei Tai Classic Toddler on vacation ... read how she liked it here!
When Judith mentioned that she was taking a baby carrier on vacation, she got puzzled looks. Her daughter? Surely she was long past babyhood? But for Judith, it was the best decision she could have made. Her sensitive toddler was easily overstimulated, and walking together was only possible if her daughter felt safe and secure. In the baby carrier.
"In the baby carrier, she is lovely looking around. I don't worry about her and so everyone has a much more enjoyable time."
The idea that babywearing is only for babies is still alive. But Judith discovered how nice it is to carry her daughter when she was older. No baby carriage for her, as she found it clumsy and uncomfortable for her daughter. In an ergonomic baby carrier, her baby felt safe, calm and connected.
"My girl gets very nervous with a lot of crowds. She can't take all those stimuli very well. In the baby carrier, she calms down."
For overstimulated children, carrying is a fine way to unload. The rocking movements and physical contact provide relaxation and safety. And it's not just for babies.
During her vacation, Judith saw another family with a child who became easily overstimulated. They almost didn't dare go out with their autistic toddler until they tried a baby carrier. The difference was huge.
"They thought the child was too old. But if you secure it a little bit well, and they hold on to your back nicely, it's totally fine."
Carrying a child doesn't have to be all day. It is just about those moments when it is needed for a moment. For peace, closeness and connection.
Judith ended up with ByKay, a brand recommended to her by friends. She was looking for something that was not only ergonomic, but also beautiful and practical.
"I am so grateful that my friends recommended a ByKay baby carrier to me. This was SO nice for both of us."
For a while, the baby carrier became indispensable. And although her daughter has since gone through a growth spurt, Judith still keeps the baby carrier. Because you never know.
"Who knows anyway?"
Carrying is more than just convenience. It is a way of relating to your child. A way of listening to what they need, even when others question it.
"Well I can let her cry and do all kinds of things people think I should do. But in the baby carrier, it's nicer for both of us. And that's what it's all about."
Do you doubt that your child is too big to carry yet?
Above all, listen to your gut. Every child is different, and you know what works for you. A nice baby carrier can still mean so much even with a toddler or preschooler. For your back, your head and especially for your heart.
