Monday, July 27, 2015

Babywearing is a Family Affair!


 
 
 
I was fortunate to grow up around babywearing. My parents added two babies to our family when I was a teenager, and I not only watched my mother wear them in a ring sling and my father occasionally carry them in a backpack, I wore them myself at times.

So when I became a parent myself, the use of slings and carriers seemed like a natural option. I've worn both of my kids since they were newborns. When my older brothers and their wives started having kids, they also embraced babywearing, making us a whole family of babywearers.

We recently had the pleasure of hosting our kids' cousins (and their parents) for week. Everyone had a great time, but the question might arise:  How do you keep up with six kids age five years and under-- including three one-year-olds-- when the kids outnumber the adults and you're touring the DC area for a week? Answer:  babywearing!




On a few outings, we brought one stroller that some of the kids took turns using. But we always brought lots of carriers. During our visits to the zoo, a farm, monuments, museums, a festival, hiking trails, and more, the ability to put a child on one's back while chasing or helping another child was invaluable. Babywearing allowed us to explore and have a great time together while keeping a large number of children safe and content. I look forward to many similar adventures in the future.

Tuesday, July 21, 2015

Babywearers, Balls, and the Beach!

This week, members of Babywearing International of DC-MD-VA went to visit a unique exhibit open at the National Building Museum this summer!  It's the BEACH!  An art installation that fills the huge atrium of the National Building Museum with a beach with no sand, water, or sharks!  A giant ball pit that is fun for children and adults alike.  After we got our workout playing in the "water" we walked a few blocks and enjoyed lunch.  This was a fun outing that we highly recommend.

Jump!


R and M are having a little too much fun!



I'm sinking!
Don't let go, mom!


 

Best buds together again!

Uncle D's face says it all here

Uh oh!  Uncle D knew what was coming...


Everyone into the pool!

Splash!



Even the grownups had fun jumping in

We played with our kids

And we enjoyed time with friends!
 

What a great place to practice back wearing!



Laying out enjoying the waves lapping on our legs!
Gathering for our trek to lunch

Babywearers on the move!

Back babies!



Playing with baby waiting for our table.
Our group knows how to have fun together!