Introducing a 9 month old to the sling, and pregnant...

[ihugtrees]

I am starting a new nanny job in a few weeks. The kids are 9 months, 2 years, and almost 5. I am due with my own in June, but when I come back to work in August, the 5 year old will be in Kindergarten. Any way, the 9 month old is very tiny and I know it would be so much easier (and more fun!) to wear her while I am playing and interacting with the other two. So:

1) How do you introduce a 9 month old to a sling or a wrap when she's never been in one before? Also, what would be the best sling/wrap for this? It'd be awesome if it's something I could use with my infant too.

2) How do you babywear when you are pregnant? I am 24 weeks and already have a pretty big belly.

[bremen]

my nanny kids are 9 months and 2.5 years.
the parents have slings, but rarely use them. i use them every day.
the simplest for a kid to get used to is a hip carry in a ringsling. it is a familiar position, and only takes seconds to get on. this baby took to it right away.
i am getting a meitai tomorrow, becuase for my own sanity, i need to get this kid on my back!
i will let you know how that goes. i am lucky and have a cloth diaper store nearby, and they have babywearing classes too. i can't wait to go

[baturay]

I would say too go with a hip carry with a ring sling, as that's also the same position she's probably used to being held when in arms.

For pregnancy, I've found hip carries and back carries to be most comfortable. I can do front carries up until the second trimester and then go to hip or back. But, since she hasn't been worn before, I'd get her used to the hip carry before going to a back carry. For back carries, I've been using a mei tai or woven wrap for full support (I'm 37 weeks).

[mrscookie]

just wanted to say -- how wonderful that you wear your nanny kids! I hope I'm able to find a nanny who will wear my babe (and reads mdc--what a dream!)