A flying saucer is basically a swing with a saucer-shaped seat. This type of swing has the advantage of being generous enough to allow multiple kids to enjoy swinging at the same time. Some flying saucer swing models can be hanged from tree branches, while others come with their own sturdy stand.
Why kids like them
There are so many reasons why flying saucer swings are a hit with kids. First is the most obvious one: the fun of swinging! Kids love being physically active and exercising. The swing allows kids to swing in different fun ways like back and forth, spinning, or a mixture of both.
Second, saucer wings allow several kids to swing together, which is more fun. Of course, this will depend on the size and recommended weight capacity, but most can allow two to three kids at once.
Third, saucer swings provide a relaxing place for the kids to sit in a group telling stories, playing mind games, or reading. They can also stand as the saucer swing is pretty sturdy and safe.
Fourth, saucer swings are portable and can be used both indoor and outdoor. This means kids can continue to have fun swinging even when the weather is bad.
How to choose the best
Below are a few things to check before buying your flying saucer swing. They apply for both tree swing and saucer swing withstand.
High-quality hardware
The quality of hardware of the swing is the most important factor to consider as it determines the swing’s ability to withstand pressure and harsh weather conditions. Choose one with a sturdy frame. Swing set hardware made from a steel frame and polythene ropes are stable and require very minimal maintenance, if at any. Also, choose swings with good warranty deals as you can be sure any issues that may arise will be sorted for free for the period the warranty is valid.
The right certification
Knowing that the flying saucer swing your children will be using has been tested and cleared for safety by ASTM and CPSIA is reassuring, so always check if it has the certification before installing.
Ability to meet your intended use
Saucer swing models are versatile and can be used in quite a lot of ways. You could use it for family fun, kids play, exercising, group play with friends, outdoors fun, indoor fun, etc. Once you are decided about how you plan to use the swing, you just need to ensure that the swing meets the required specification. If you plan on indoor use, for example, you may need to buy a saucer swing with a stand. If you plan on family use, a larger swing with a high weight limit would be ideal.
Safety features
Whether you are using the swing for family use or kids’ play, you don’t want to overlook safety. Check what safety features the swing has in place before purchasing. You could also read reviews of people who have had an experience with the product to give you a picture of its reliability.
The Royal Oak Giant 40″ Flying saucer would make a fine addition to any garden or backyard setting. It comes in various designs with vibrant colors and unique patterns, and your kids will love the bonus flags.
It has a 40-inch diameter and 700 lbs weight capacity, becoming an ideal choice whether you are considering it for kids to play or whole family fun.
It is very well made and sturdy and uses only heavy-duty materials. This means it’s always swinging ready, and you have no fear for your kid’s safety. You can install it indoors and outdoors as well.
The features we loved the most:
Ultra-safe and long-lasting
It uses only the toughest and safest materials such as 900D Oxford fabric, steel frame, and commercial quality polyester rope. This makes it pretty sturdy to accommodate several kids or an adult safely. Also, it is free of toxic chemicals such as lead and is both ASTM and CPSIA approved.
Weather-resistant
Thanks to its high-quality hardware, this saucer swing is all-weather ready. Whether it’s sunny or rainy, the materials hold up pretty well.
1-year warranty
It has a one year warranty against manufacturer’s defects once you register after receiving.
Pros
Vibrant colors and bonus flags
Large with a high weight capacity
Sturdy and safe
Can be used both indoors and outdoors
Adjustable height
It’s a breeze to install
One year warranty
Cons
Cords are very short; you will require buying hanging straps at an extra cost
The Play Platoon Flying Saucer Tree swing is excellent for fun-filled activities. It provides a safe place for your kids or family to play thanks to the steel frame and high-quality material and stitching. You can get it in blue or purple.
It has a weight capacity of 400 lbs and a diameter of 30 inches hence large enough to have three kids at once. You will also love that it comes fully assembled, so you only need to install it, which takes a few minutes.
The features we loved the most:
Strong and durable
It uses a steel frame for sturdiness and durability. And the porous material lets rainwater to drain to avoid degrading and prevent wetting your kid’s clothes.
Comes fully assembled
We love the convenience of being fully assembled, so it’s just hanging, and kids can have a go at it within minutes.
Easy installation
It’s so easy to set up that anyone can do it alone. Plus, the instructions are crystal and simple. It also comes along with 2 carabiners.
Pros
Spacious enough for three or more kids
Higher weight capacity than normal swings
Well-built with a sturdy frame and reinforced stitching
Nothing says fun like this Giant Platform Swing by Legendary. It’s large, oval-shaped with smooth curves and beautiful. Its dimensions are 60 x 32 inches and a weight limit of 320, making it usable for kids, teens, and adults to use.
Whether you want to swing, spin, lie down to nap, or exercise, this swing has got you. It is well made with durable and safe materials and can be used outdoors or indoors.
The features we loved the most:
Giftable
This would make the perfect gift for any kid, and it would definitely be a hit with all her/his friends because it’s so cool. Besides, it comes in a very nice looking Legendary designer packaging, and you won’t even need wrappers.
Great for the whole family fun
Whether you have several toddlers or teens, this swing is large and sturdy to allow everyone to swing at once. The adults as well can have fun swinging or just relaxing outdoors to unwind.
Long-lasting and safe construction
It is made of strong materials to hold up to 350 lbs. Foam handles for a safe and comfortable grip reinforced stitching for durability and foam padding for enhanced comfort.
Comes with full hanging kit
After the swing is delivered, no need to kill your kids’ excitement by rushing to the hardware to buy hanging straps. It includes all the accessories at no extra cost to you.
Pros
Safe and durable
Large seating capacity
Comfortable foam grips
Comes with complete with kit
Attractive design
Cons
Lengthy assembly
Color may fade and material start to break down when left long periods in the sun
Play platoon Spider Web Tree Swing would compliment any backyard. It’s huge and can hold up to 600 lbs, making it ideal for multiple kids to play together.
It’s an easy swing to set up as it comes already pre-assembled. It has tightly woven webbing with no exposed knots that would cause discomfort and adjustable height to meet your maximum fun and safety requirements.
The features we loved the most:
Arrives fully assembled
No need to be frustrated by hard to follow instructions and complicated assembly. As soon as it is delivered, it’s ready for use in a matter of just a few minutes. A single person can do the installation, and the instructions are straightforward.
Durable construction
To support a weight of 600 lbs, it uses sturdy steel frames and extra strong polyethylene ropes that will last for years.
Large capacity
The flying saucer swing is very large and can have four kids or two adults, adding up to 600 lbs.
Replacement warranty
Play Platoon is a company that stands behind its product. Their Spider Web Tree Swing comes with an automatic 1-year replacement warranty and an option for a free two-year extension when you register online.
Nothing gives parents more joy than seeing their kids happy, excited, and full of life. That is what the Flying Squirrel Giant Rope Swing delivers. Kids can swing, twirl, spin, or enjoy any other motions they enjoy. With a weight limit of 200 lbs, it’s designed for kids’ play, and a diameter of 40 inches allows four or more kids to ride at the same time.
The saucer swing is very sturdy and can be used indoors and outdoors. And the fabric is washable to keep it looking fresh.
The features we loved the most:
Kids friendly
It is designed in such a way that kids can have maximum fun and excitement outdoors and indoors, with large room and movement options.
Safe and durable
The flying saucer swing uses high-quality fabrics and a sturdy frame for durability. This ensures kids are safe as they ride in it.
Swinging Monkey Products Giant 40” Saucer Nest Tree Swing is an excellent option if you are looking for a long-lasting family fun swing. The materials and construction are of superb quality and designed in the US.
The saucer swing is extra-large with a 40-inch diameter and a weight capacity of 400 lbs. It is designed to provide the whole family with fun through its exhilarating swinging motions, spins, or even when you just want to lie down and chill. Although it’s a tree swing, you could also install it indoors.
The features we loved the most:
Tough and durable construction
Swinging Monkey Products saucer swing is made with a heavy-duty industrial-strength steel frame and 900D Oxford fabric for the seat.
Ultra-safe
The swing only uses the highest grade materials to ensure everyone’s safety. For reassurance, it is ASTM and CPSIA tested and approved.
Fun for everyone
The swing is huge and allows multiple kids and parents within 400 pounds weight limit to enjoy a great and fun time outdoors.
Quick and easy assembly and installation
The company provides you with easy to follow step-by-step instructions to help you install your swing on your own with no problems.
12 months no hassle quality guarantee warranty
You are covered for the next 12 months from the date of purchase should you experience a problem, no questions asked.
Pros
Extra-large with higher weight capacity than ordinary swings
Very sturdy and well made
Easy to install
The fabric is colorfast and drains water
Cons
You are required to buy hanging straps at an extra cost
Trailblaze Giant Web Tree Swing is designed to ensure kids spend more time outdoors having fun than in front of the big screen for robust health. With a 40inch diameter and 650 lbs weight limit, you can have the whole family join in for some great fun time in the sun.
It comes pre-assembled, so you only need to choose your preferred location and install it. You can have it hanging from a tree, swing set, playset, pergola, or any other place with a suitable anchor. Better still, it includes two hanging straps and carabiners, which means you save money and time.
When you need to store like during winter, the swing folds into four easily packable pieces that won’t take much space.
The features we loved the most:
Spacious with a high weight limit
It can safely accommodate both parents and multiple kids
Safe and durable
The spider swing is made with two-inch-thick steel poles wrapped by extra-strong rope to make it safe, sturdy, and long-lasting. The premium quality materials also make it withstand brutal outdoor weather.
Portable
When not in use, you can easily fold the large swing into four smaller and packable pieces for convenient storage.
Free hanging kit
The swing comes along with two hanging straps and carabiners, saving you money and ensuring you don’t need to go hassling in the hard wares for straps.
Pros
Extra large
Compact and foldable design
Comes complete with hanging kit
Cons
The provided straps are not reliable as they rip after a few weeks
A baby swing is a true lifesaver in the life of any new parents. Many parents have found this ingenious invention to be the only thing that sometimes helps to calm their fussy baby when all else fails. It gives your tired hands rest from rocking the baby and even provides a relaxing and safe spot for your baby to play and nap as you attend to other stuff around the house.
While there are so many swings in the market, those with a plug-in option are the most convenient to use and economical. And, after hours of research, we have narrowed it down to the ten best and popular swings so you can have an easier time spotting the one that best suits your needs. Here are our best baby swings that plug in:
The Graco Simple Swing is top on our list of best swings because it has all the features you would desire in a swing, and it’s affordably priced ($74.99). The manufacturer recommended age is between 5 to 30 pounds, so your baby will get some good use out of it.
This sway has a small footprint, making it a suitable choice even for those who live in tight spaces. It is also light enough to carry between rooms.
The seat is deep and plush with removable head support and will keep your little darling comfortable while a 5 point harness secures them for safety. Regarding the swinging motion, it moves side to side with six varying speeds, so you can choose whichever your child likes. Additionally, it has two vibration speeds and soothing songs and sounds to help settle your baby.
The swing is also versatile, allowing you to use batteries or plug it in the wall depending on your needs. Just in case you are not sure if you should buy it, the swing is a best seller on Amazon with a rating of 4.5 by more than 8k customers, so it is really that great.
Pros
Two powering options; battery and plug-in
Great for small spaces
Easy to set up
Has adjustable speed and volume
Has soothing options; music, sounds, and two-speed vibrations
Provides excellent value for money
Cons
Produces some low clicking sound when which has not been bothersome for most people, but it’s noticeable
Not the easiest to assemble because of poor instructions
The Graco Soothing Sytem Gliding Swing is pricey ($233.35), but it gives excellent value because it’s a multifunctional unit that converts into a gliding swing, gliding, or stationary bassinet, and portable bouncer when detached. For the price, your child gets to enjoy the luxury of six different swinging speeds as they recline in two positions. Other pieces have different weight limits, of course, but the manufacturer recommended age for the swing is between 5.5 to 30 pounds/30 inches.
We love that the swing can be plugged in, which is economical and you don’t have to deal with annoying batteries that run out so fast, compromising functionality. You can still use batteries if you don’t have access to an outlet or want a wireless connection. Plus, it has a carrying handle to enable you to move it about and a canopy that shields your baby from the sun when using outdoors.
It also has an array of soothing and entertainment features, including two speed vibration, mobile toys, songs, and nature sounds.
If you can afford it, this is swing a good deal as you get to keep your baby close, happy, and sleeping comfortably.
Pros
Very versatile
Durable construction with premium quality materials
The Graco Duet Swing doubles up as a rocker and it gives you a wide range of movements to soothe a fussy baby. It can swing, glide, or a combination of side to side and front to back. And with variable swing speeds, you can set just the right pace that is soothing for your child. It offers three reclining positions so you can have your baby in an upright or sitting position for play or lay it almost flat for a nap. It is also very safe for your child to use because the three-point harness keeps them secure.
As a rocker, your child will have a safe place to play and carry handles enables you to move it about in your home to keep a close eye on your baby while finishing up other tasks.
It also has 2- speed vibrations, soothing music and sounds, and mobile toys to inspire play. It is used when plugged-in, but the vibration unit needs a 1D battery to run.
This swing is suitable for babies weighing between 5.5 to 30 pounds/30 inches and 15 pounds for the rocker.
This baby swing transforms into a rocker seat with a one-hand operated lever to give your baby a relaxing spot to play or fall asleep. It has all the features you need to calm your fussy baby, including vibrations with two speed settings, classical songs and nature sounds.
It is very cozy with soft fabrics and plush paddings, and three reclining positions to play or nap. And it still glides even in the sleeper position, so you can be sure the baby will enjoy long naps.
It has a 3-point harness to secure your baby and has both plug-in and battery powering options for convenience.
If you have been struggling to get your little one to fall asleep or they only sleep for short periods, it’s time to get this amazing swing- it is a sleep charm for babies!
We absolutely love the cute elephant themed cushion and mobile toys on this swing. It has two motion options: side to side and front to back. You can choose from six different speeds to find out what works best for your baby. Even more impressive is that unlike other swings whose speeds are slowed as the baby becomes weightier, this swing has senses the baby weight and can maintain speed, and doesn’t even need a push to start the motions.
It is super comfortable for infants and babies with soft, plush padding and is safe thanks to a 5 point harness. Additionally, it plays soothing songs and nature sounds to help calm your baby. It has a plug-in option only.
You need to note that it has a weight limit of 25 pounds, which is a bit low compared to some others.
If you are looking for the latest smartwatch brands to pick from for kids today, then read on as I have reviewed the best smartwatch for kids in 2021.
Smartwatches don’t have to be only for adults. Nowadays, there is a wide range of smartwatches designed to appeal to young ones with educational apps and games to keep them busy for hours. The good thing is that unlike phones, smartwatches have good parental control and restricted access to inappropriate content. They also make it possible for parents to keep in touch with their kids through two-way calls and messaging. Some even have GPS and SOS functions helping parents to keep track of their kid’s whereabouts.
If you would like one for your child or grandchild or special friend, you can check out from our list the best smartwatches in the market for kids. Pay attention to the functions and age recommendations to help you choose the best smartwatch for kids from these:
For the best gift for your child, we choose this beautiful, smartwatch by 321OU. It is designed to be used by kids and adults alike, so you know it packs many useful apps and features. The other reason it’s top on our list is it’s incredibly cheap pricing (less than $30).
The smartwatch has a two-way call function enabling your child to receive and make calls. When using a sim card, they can view messages on Whatsapp and email, if it is connected to their smartphone by Bluetooth.
Most kids and teenagers love taking selfies and photos and listening to music. If that describes your child, they will definitely love this watch as it has both music and a camera. With a Micro SD (bought separately), your child can save all the pictures of fun moments they had during the day and upload music from their computer to listen to.
The smartwatch also counts as a great tool to inspire kids to become more active and health conscious as it has a pedometer to monitor the distance they have covered and steps made. It also has a sedentary reminder to keep your child from sitting too long, which is dangerous for their health. And finally, it has a sleep monitor that sends a detailed report on the app, so as a parent, you will always know how well your child is sleeping.
Specification
Manufacturer
Xiaoou Intelligent
Dimensions
3.54 x 3.11 x 2.95 inches
Weight
2.39 ounces
Amazon rating
3.0/5 by 1365 customers
Pros
It is affordable
It has a good sensitive touch screen that makes operations enjoyable
It synchronizes with smartphones very fast
Cons
It is a large-sized watch which may be too bulky for smaller kids
Does not come with a Sim card or microSD
The battery lasts a few hours with use and needs one to update time and date after every charging session
Play is a vital aspect for kids’ development, and in fact, the CDC recommends that children should have 60 minutes of daily activity. That’s why you need to consider getting Fitbit Ace for your child. It is a fitness tracker designed to track daily steps, active minutes and displays the reading on the smartwatch’s display screen. With the Fitbit app on your smartphone, you can always track how your child is fairing. It also encourages having fitness goals, gives in-app rewards and badges when your child reaches the goals. It also tracks sleep, which is another important aspect for healthy development and an alarm with vibration.
And like any other watch, it displays time, so your child will learn to read the time and alarm function, which vibrates against the wrist.
Fitbit Ace smartwatch is slim and in beautiful color options, blue and purple to cater for boys and girls, and the stylish design will go with any outfit.
Lastly, the battery lasts up to 5 days before requiring charge according to the manufacturer, although it will depend on usage among other factors.
Manufacturer
Fitbit Inc
Weight
1.09 ounces
Amazon rating
4.3/5 by 864 customers
Pros
It is affordably priced
It synchronizes with Android and iOS
It has a long battery life
It is hard wearing as it withstands constant movement, drops, and water splashes
Cons
Some customers complained that the set up was hard
The band might be small for some children, but it can be replaced with the Alta band.
3. LDB Direct Kids Smartwatch with GPS
$22.99 $20.99
in stock
1 new
from $20.99 1 used from $18.03 Free shipping
If you are the parent who is a bit worried about your child going to unfamiliar places or for their safety for any reason (we all do it anyway), the LDB smartwatch will give you and your child peace of mind. It has a GPS tracker that will allow you to locate where your child is at all times easily. If there is a certain place you would not like your child to go venturing out, you can set an alert to be notified when they go to that specific area. It also has an SOS function with up to three numbers your child can call in case of an emergency or if they are lost.
The smartwatch also enables everyday communication with family and friends with two-way calls and voice messaging. During school hours, parents can set it to non-disturb mode to ensure disturbing calls are not allowed through.
It is also an educational tool with math games with three levels of difficulty. This helps to sharpen the young one’s minds and becomes a fun activity with the timer limit and other kids participating competitively.
It also has a camera to record all the fun moments while the flashlight provides light to be able to see at night when needed.
Specification
Manufacturer
Haoge us
Dimensions
4.4 x 3.6 x 1.5 inches
Weight
3.2 ounces
Recommended age
3 years and above
Amazon rating
2.7/5 by 30 customers
Sim card
2G GMS
Pros
Very easy for children to operate
It is affordable
It is light, and the bands are soft, making it comfortable for small wrists
This is perhaps the cheapest model in the market ($15), but it has great functions like GPS and a system to keep you and your child connected no matter where they are. It is a basic model designed to keep young children safe, connected, and entertained.
The smartwatch allows your child to save three phone numbers and can place and receive calls as well as leave voice messages. Parents can also send text messages for the young wearer to read.
In terms of safety, this model has GPS/LBS tracking capabilities enabling you to always know where your child is. And in case of an emergency your child can press the SOS button for three seconds to connect them to their pre-programmed emergency contacts.
This smartwatch also includes a camera so your child can take photos to come show you all they were up to all day, which is really cool.
Specification
Manufacturer
jsbaby
Dimensions
4.4 x 3.8 x 1.4 inches
Weight
2.39 ounces
Amazon rating
2.7/5 by 16 customers
Sim card
2G GMS
Pros
It’s the cheapest model on this list
Basic functionality which is easy for the young children to use
Adjustable wristband that fits small children’s wrists
Compatible with iOS and Android
Cons
It requires a sim card to work (bought separately)
Only capable of using 2G network
It is not compatible with some phone companies
Does not have legible instructions, which makes the set up difficult
GizmoWatch is designed to keep your kids safe, fit, and entertained. It is suitable for children aged 3 to 11 years.
It connects to the 4G LTE network for fast speed and reliability, and with the two -way calls and messaging, and your child can stay connected to up to 10 trusted family and friends.
If you would not like your child to go exploring a certain area or neighborhood, you can set up the GPS boundaries, so you will be alerted if and when they get to the specific location.
It also inspires your child to be active by counting their daily steps and setting fitness goals. Plus, your child can send schedule reminders using on-screen event notifications.
The smartwatch is also water resistant, so you don’t need to worry about the watch dying if your child decides to jump into the pool wearing it. It is also compatible with any standard 20 mm watch straps, which means you can buy different strap types or colors to suit different occasions or as you wish.
Specification
Manufacturer
Verizon
Dimensions
0.6 x 1.85 x 1.65 inches
Weight
6.9 ounces
Amazon rating
4.1/5 by 130 customers
6. Themoemoe Kids Smartwatch
$30.99
in stock
1 new
from $30.99 1 used from $13.84 Free shipping
Themoemoe is another basic smartwatch with a few functions, which makes it great for small children.
It has GPS enabling you to know your child’s whereabouts at all times. And, when you connect to the app, you can add 10 phone numbers of your choice that your child can call. Additionally, the SOS function allows you to preset 3 contacts that your child can connect to within three seconds in the event of an emergency.
Using the smartwatch, you can always stay in touch with your child, thanks to the two-way calls and voice chat. When your child is in school, you can set the smartwatch to classroom mode to prevent any disturbances from other functions except the SOS function.
It also has a front camera so your child can take pictures of any fun stuff they come across in their day. Using the app, a parent can open the camera remotely, enabling them to see exactly where the child is and what they are doing. This means you have excellent parental control.
Specification
Manufacturer
Themoemoe
Dimensions
4.33 x 3.62 x 1.46 inches
Weight
2.89 ounces
Amazon rating
2.9/5 by 59 customers
Pros
Uses very good quality materials to withstand long wearing while remaining comfortable on the wrist
Compatible with most Android and iOS
Uses both GPS and LBS for more accurate tracking
Remote cameras enable parents to see exactly where the child is and what they are up to.
It has very good quality pictures
Cons
It does not function at all without a sim card, which you buy separately
Customers find it a bit hard to set up because instructions are hard to follow
This super cute Disney themed smartwatch is an excellent gift for any little girl below six years. It has simple functions, but your girl will love it.
The features included are mostly for fun, like interchangeable background with ten Minnie Mouse faces and clocks. Additionally, it has three other built-in games that will keep her engaged.
The smartwatch has a front facing camera for your little girl to take selfies and a voice recorder so she can have fun listening to her voice while singing and giving imaginary speeches. It also has a pedometer to track daily steps she makes, which will motivate her to be active.
This smartwatch has a long lasting rechargeable battery and comes complete with a USB charger. Other features include an alarm, stopwatch, and calculator, making this a multifunctional smartwatch that will give your kid a lot to do.
Specification
Manufacturer
Accutime Watch Corp
Dimensions
6.6 x 3.6 x 3.4 inches
Weight
1.4 ounces
Amazon rating
4.4/5 by 199 customers
Pros
Adorable design that small kids will love
Simple function for small kids
Easy to set up
Uses a long lasting rechargeable battery
Cons
The color and design may be only suitable for girls
The quality and functionality are only impressive for small kids
The watch is really large and may be too bulky for small wrists
This next product is another activity tracker like the Fitbit Ace we reviewed earlier, but the Garmin is a cartoon-themed with all your child’s favorite cartoon pictures from spiderman, star wars, Disney characters, and more.
Garmin jr2 is the perfect activity tracker because of its high-quality design to withstand everyday wearing, bumps, and bashes. It is also waterproof. It counts the daily steps made and has two reminders; one for when your child has been sedentary and another reminding them to have the recommended 60 minutes of activity.
Besides tracking activity, it also monitors your child’s sleep and will give a report in the family app so parents can know how their child slept the previous night. It also has clock features that are educative for your child, including an alarm, stopwatch, and timer.
Another feature the kids will love is the toe to toe challenge, which becomes more fun when they compete with their friends.
Even as parents, this smartwatch has some functions you can use to your advantage. Use the in-app coin reward to challenge your child further and promise them a special treat upon completion. Or, use the chore feature to schedule chores on a regular interval, and the smartwatch will remind your child to do a certain task at a particular time, teaching them to be organized and responsible.
This smartwatch is available in two different style bands made of soft durable silicone. One is stretchy, measuring up to 147mm, and this is designed for kids aged between 4 to 7 years. The other type is adjustable with a buckle for a wrist size up to 170mm, which is intended for kids aged 6 and above.
Specifications
Manufacturer
Garmin
Dimensions
2 x 1.6 x 0.9 inches
Weight
0.96 ounces
Amazon rating
4.4/5 by 321 customers
Ranking
# 7 in Activity & fitness trackers
Pros
High quality built for rough wearing and swimming without damage.
Compatible with Android, iOS, and Amazon fire devices via Bluetooth
It gives good parental control to monitor fitness data and set up chores
Uses non-rechargeable battery that lasts for one year before needing replacement
Have colorful cartoon design options suitable for both boys and girls
One of the best features of VTech smartwatches is the camera quality. The DX2 is their newest model with a more sleek and stylish design and an additional selfie camera. With this smartwatch, your child will love taking pictures and videos. You can upload the pictures and videos on a computer with an included USB. Moreover, your child can customize pictures with filters to make fun watch faces.
This smartwatch includes a motion sensor that works with motion apps such as Funky Jump, Crazy Dance, and Racing run. These apps encourage your child to jump, dance, and run. Meanwhile, the watch will be playing sound effects and tracking their steps, which is a fun way to keep your child motivated as they exercise.
It also includes five exciting games, including Monster Catcher, where the player needs to capture monsters in the real world using the camera. And, if the five are not enough, you can download more games.
There is a lot your child can learn with this smartwatch. First, of course, is how to read the time from different clock designs in both analog and digital faces and timing using tools such as an alarm, timer, and a calendar. The second is learning to use their creativity to add stamps, frames, and filters to photos and videos.
Specification
Manufacturer
VTech
Dimensions
8.9 x 0.7 x 1.8 inches
weight
7.7 ounces
Recommended age
4 to 12 years
Amazon rating
4.5/5 by 7,405 customers
Ranking
# 4 in Electronic Learning & Educational toys
Pros
It has parental controls allowing you to set game limits
It has two cameras to take pictures of surrounding and selfies
It has a long lasting battery that lasts up two weeks with light use
Allows pictures and videos to be transferred to a computer and vice versa with the included USB cable
It is very easy to set up
Functions independently without requiring Bluetooth or Wifi
It has lots of fun games and educational features
Cons
The pedometer is not as accurate as other fitness trackers
The games may be too basic for older children
It is not waterproof, but it will survive splashes
It is only charged from a computer, making kids without access to their own computers not to be able to charge when needed sometimes.
The Amazfit Bip is primarily designed for adults, but the features are impressive for teens already having smartphones. It is lightweight and with smooth straps making it comfortable to wear all day long.
This smartwatch has two major functions: keeping in touch with the world and fitness tracking. Using Bluetooth, the wearer can be notified of calls, messages, and other notifications from various smartphone apps like Facebook, Twitter, Whatsapp, and more. The smartwatch vibrates against the arm, making it hard to miss any calls, messages, reminders, or notifications.
Regarding fitness, the smartwatch tracks all kinds of sports done both indoors and outdoors. Using GPS and optical heart rate, it tracks the distance covered, steps taken, speed, calories burned, elevation, quality of sleep, and more depending on the selected sports mode. When the wearer sits too long, it sends reminders or vibrations from the alarm clock.
And as with any smartwatch, the display is customizable with many faces if you get bored with one, and it displays time and weather as well.
Last but not least, this smartwatch has the longest battery life in the market. The manufacturer says it can last up to 45 days! Of course, it will depend on the usage, but one can still get up to more than a week, even with heavy usage. That makes it the perfect accessory for your teen when camping and hiking as they don’t have to worry about not having a power source.
Specification
Manufacturer
Amazfit
Dimensions
7.9 x 12.1 x 18.1 inches
weight
1.1 ounces
Amazon rating
4.0/5 by 8,743 customers
Pros
The pricing offers great value for money
The screen remains on at all times end has adequate visibility even in the sun
Has an unbeatable long battery life
It has an adjustable band to fit people with small and big wrists
Cons
Has limited functions and without camera or music player
Does not have a speaker or mic, which makes it impossible to talk directly with callers on phone
You cannot type on the screen; hence you can only read but not reply to incoming messages directly.
In this post, I review VTech VM350 with details of its features, specs, pros, and cons. I have also shared details on VTech VM350 extra camera.
VTech VM 350 video baby monitor is a non-wifi baby monitor that comes with a package of one or two cameras and a white portable parent device with a black intuitive screen and easy to use push buttons. This is a good choice for those who love a monitor with a large screen with its 5-inch screen. It is also a long transmitting monitor and reaches 1000ft on open ground, which means you can keep an eye on your baby from any room within your home and backyard too.
This monitor tracks temperature and displays on your portable device, enabling you to know when you need to adjust the thermostat or turn on the fan so your baby can be safe and comfortable.
The parent unit can play lullabies and soothing sounds via the camera to help lull your baby to sleep, while the two-way audio lets you listen to your baby’s coos or talk to them.
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The other useful feature is the sound indicator with nine levels allowing you to know if your baby is crying, fussing, giggling, or cooing so you can respond accordingly.
You can also save battery on this monitor like when your baby is asleep because of the sound activation mode that keeps the screen turned off but becomes active in case of noise in your baby’s room.
The technology it uses: Hack Proof FHSS
Features
Tabletop and Wall mountable
Two-way talk back
IR night vision
Temperature sensors
Lullabies and white noise
Vox mode
9 sound levels indicator
Specifications
Manufacturer’s name
VTech
Model number
BM100
Dimension
6.47 x 3.11 x 4.95 inches
Weight
1.2 pounds
Power source
Rechargeable battery
Battery life
4 hours
Screen display size
5 inches
Sensor technology
Night vision, room temperature
Average rating on Amazon
4.3/5 by 881 customers
Rank
#20 in baby monitors
Pros
Straightforward to install
Good picture quality day and night
It has a great range and reliable transmission
Nine sound level indicator enable parents to differentiate the kind of noise so they can respond accordingly
Cons
It has a very short battery life
VTech VM350 Extra Camera
VTech does not produce VTech VM350 extra cameras. If you want a 2-camera baby monitor of this model, you can opt for the VTech VM350-2.
Apart from purchasing the option with two cameras, the Vtech VM350 is non-expandable, so you cannot pair with more cameras.
Manual
You can check the manual for both VTech VM350 and VTech VM350-2 here.
VTech VM350-2 5" Video Baby Monitor with 5" Screen, Long Range, Invision Infrared Night Vision, 2 Cameras, Multiple Viewing Options, Two Way Talk, Auto On Screen
** High-resolution, 5" color LCD screen ** Lets you clearly see every little move of your baby right from the parent unit. Plug & Play, the monitor and camera are configured for monitoring right out of the box
** Up to 1,000 feet of range ** Stay connected to your baby from another room or even from the yard. Go about your day with up to 1,000 feet of range
** Two-way, talk-back intercom ** Sometimes all your baby needs is to hear the sound of your voice. Comfort your infant from any room with the built-in intercom on the portable parent unit
** Soothing sounds and lullabies ** Five calming melodies and four soft ambient sounds, including a trickling stream and white noise, help your baby slip into a sweet slumber
** Temperature sensor ** Keep your little one cozy. The temperature indicator on the parent unit lets you know when it's time to adjust the thermostat
If you like ANNKE products and wondering whether the ANNKE baby monitor is worth it, read on as this is a helpful ANNKE Baby Monitor review with details of its features, pros, and cons. We have previously reviewed hackproof non-wifi baby monitors here at 10BabyGear and we hope this review will guide you accordingly as you decide if ANNKE BM100 is right for you.
Annke BM 100 is a feature-rich monitor and comes at a competitively reasonable price. It consists of a 5-inch color LCD screen that is easily portable and a camera that you can mount on the table or wall to get the best view of your baby’s room. With a display of 480p resolution, you will get some decent quality pictures and it lets you zoom in up to two times to get an up-close view to check the finer details. Better still, the camera can pan or tilt it to get a wider view of the baby’s surroundings. And when it gets dark, you shall still be able to see your baby as the camera switches to using infrared night vision automatically.
This monitor helps take care of your baby by having built-in lullabies that your baby will love listening to before bed. Two-way audio lets you talk to your baby and vice versa. Additionally, it tracks the room temperatures and alerts you when it senses your baby’s room is starting to get too hot or too cold, so you can make the necessary adjustments to ensure your baby is comfortable and safe.
The other thing you will love about this monitor is the alarm function. It is designed to let you know when the baby is crying and as a feeding reminder. That way, you can take a nap and be confident you will wake just in time to feed your hungry baby. That’s a real bonus as there aren’t many monitors with this feature.
Another impressive feature of this monitor is that it has a long range of transmission (1000ft), enabling you to continue receiving footage as you do stuff in your kitchen or garden.
Lastly, it has a battery saving mode where the screen is in sleep mode, but it turns on once the monitor detects sound like when your baby cries. The company states that in this mode, the battery can last for 10 hours before needing to be recharged –that’s a whole work day or night. Lasts 6.5 hours with continuous video and audio, which is still great.
Features
Wall and table top mountable
5-inch LCD
480p resolution
Pan /Tilt: 350° Pan/55° Tilt & 2X Zoom
Two-way talk
VOX mode
Temperature sensors
5 Lullabies
Feeding time alerts
Automatic IR night vision
1000ft transmission range
Expandable to 2 cameras
Pros
Offers excellent value for money
It has a decent picture quality day and night
It has additional useful features such as feeding time reminder, lullabies, and temperature display with alerts.
It pans very smoothly keeping pictures clear
Remote camera control allowing you to adjust the camera without going into the baby’s room
It has a long battery life of up to 10 hours in VOX mode
It has a great and reliable transmission range
Cons
Some reviewers complained that the picture quality was poor
ANNKE Premium Wireless Compact Video Baby Monitor Review
ANNKE Premium wireless monitor is marketed as safer for children because it uses lower RF than most other monitors, so it is an excellent choice for parents concerned about radiation and all that. Additionally, being a wireless camera setup means you will have peace of mind to use around bigger toddlers who would otherwise mess with the cables. And as a bonus, it is also much easier to set up than most, even if you are not experienced.
This monitor is designed to help make sure everything is fine with your baby. Featuring a 2.8 inch screen that can easily fit in your pockets and Wifi connectivity, you can conveniently monitor your baby from anywhere in your home within 200 meters, with zero interference. Even at night, you can see your baby with infrared night vision, while the two-way audio allows you to talk and comfort your baby to let her know you will be there to pick her in no time.
Mamas are always busy with this and that, but thanks to this monitor, you can schedule feeding times, and it will promptly remind you when it’s time to feed your baby. And the other great feature is the Vox mode, so you can keep the screen switched off but it turns on video and audio once the monitor senses even the tiniest noise in your baby’s room.
Features
2.4″ color LCD screen
480p resolution
Two-way Audio
Feeding time reminder
VOX mode
IR night vision
Wifi transmission with a range of 656ft/200m in an open area
Pros
Great pricing
Stable and interference-free transmission with Wifi
It has feeding time reminder
Cons
Customers complain that the picture is grainy
The sound quality is poor
Not reliable as it loses signal frequently
It has a very short battery life
About ANNKE Company
ANNKE is a Chinese company established in 2014 as a global security solution provider with products such as surveillance and security camera systems. So far, they have produced only the two baby monitor models we have reviewed above.
Wondering whether Samxic Baby Monitor with a large 5-inch screen is worth it? In this post, I review Samxic giving you details of what makes this non-wifi baby monitora favorite for parents looking for high-resolution images and videos and 2-way communication.
Samxic Baby Monitor comes with a 5 inch dedicated screen, which is a good thing since parents can have real-time monitoring, and it does not need an app or take up space in your smartphone. With a 720p high definition camera, it gives very clear picture quality than most other digital monitors. It also has zoom, pan, and tilt features to enable you to get the perfect view of your baby and her surroundings. Additionally, a two-way function lets you talk or soothe your baby.
The monitor has infrared lights allowing you to see your baby at night, and it also tracks the temperatures in your baby’s room. It alerts you when it senses noise and when temperatures go outside the acceptable range. This way, you can relax knowing your child is okay.
It is one of the few monitors in the market with a long lasting battery of 3000mAH. This means you can disconnect your receiver device from charge and take it with you without the fear that it will die on you after a few hours. Better still, it has a VOX feature to help you monitor your baby with audio only. This is a great feature for night time monitoring, and it also helps save the battery.
The monitor delivers signal transmission over a range of 1000ft in open space and 460ft with interference. So you will easily receive signals across your home and up and down your stairs, and most people who have used this monitor have many praises that they do not experience issues with interference or loss of signal. It is also a great choice if you have security concerns as your child’s data will be encrypted during transmission and not likely to get hacked.
Features
Baby Monitor with Camera and Audio Samxic 720P 5" Inches Display, Crying & Temperature Alert, Two-Way Talk, No Glow Night Vision, Remote Pan & Tilt & Zoom, High Privacy Baby Monitor System
$129.99 $99.99
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【HD Real-time Image】 Built-in HD Conversion Chip, 1280*1080 screen resolution, 1 million pixels and 5 inch 720P handheld display enables to see all the delicate movements of your little one clearly with full color by day and greyscale infrared images at night.
【Instant Audio Alerts】 Built-in Vox Mode, can adjust the sound control detection level according to the user's habits, in addition, sound alarm device to get timely feedback when the child is crying.
【Long-Lasting Battery】 Built-in NTC Temperature Sensor, High & Low temperature will automatically stop charging , 3000mAh rechargeable battery lasts for 7-8hrs in display mode, 24hrs in ECO energy saving mode for full-day monitoring of your baby.
【Safe & Stable Connection】 Built-in FHSS FM Technology with Digital encryption technology enables protect privacy from being leaked, 2.4Ghz tech to support stable and smooth video signal transmission, covering 480ft - 900ft range.
【Enhanced Night Vision】 Built-in the Industry's Top Algorithm to optimize the problem of excessive night vision noise(Little black dot on the screen), 940nm IR LED creates an ideal sleeping environment without disturbing your baby, Up to five meters night vision distance.
Other Features Summarized:
5-inch display
720P camera
Pan 350 degrees / tilt 110 degrees/ 2X zoom
Has sound and temperature alert
Two-way talk
Night vision
VOX mode
3,000 mAh battery capacity which is decent though not close to Vava Baby Monitors’ large-capacity battery of 4,500 mAh which lasts for up to 24 hours.
Pros
Has great picture quality
Has clear audio even with low volume
It does not have static
It comes with a mounting kit
It has a long lasting battery
It is hack proof
Cons
It does not use a smartphone app
Samxic Add-on Camera
If you would love more cameras to keep an eye on your other toddlers or just to check different rooms, the Samxic dedicated parent unit pairs with up to four cameras. One camera is going for about $70.
With remote control to pan the camera 355° and tilt 110°.
Monitoring temperature of the baby room with the built-in temperature sensor.
Sound Monitoring.
Built in 6 soothing lullabies.
Samxic Baby Monitor manual
You will receive a copy of the manual along with the monitor and stand, but just in case you don’t receive it or you want to check how it works before making your decision, you can check out a copy of the Samxic baby monitor manual here.
If you have any queries regarding your Samxic monitor, you can reach their customer support at support@samix.com or try contacting them using their website here.
Video unboxing
About Samxic Company and Website
Samxic is an international brand founded in 2018 and is based in Denver, USA. Their professional goal is to develop high-quality products for babies and parents. So far, they have made products such as video baby monitors, white noise machines, and sleep soother. Here is a link to Samxic’s Website.
FAQs
How long does Samxic baby monitor battery lasts?
Samxic 3000Ah battery lasts 8 hours when receiving video, audio, and alerts, and 24 hours on standby mode (audio only).
Samxic baby monitor no signal, how to troubleshoot
Unfortunately, the company has not put much information out there, so the best advice would be to contact their customer service from the address we have shared above. But in general, you should start by making sure the camera is well connected to the electrical unit. And, your parent receiver is well charged. Make sure you are within the manufacturer’s allowed range. If not, try moving close to the base. You could also try switching off the receiver, removing the battery, and then putting it back and switching the device back on to see if it works.
Samxic is a non-wifi baby monitor and does not smartphone app as it does not rely on Wi-Fi for transmission. It uses FHSS transmission. You can check these baby monitors that use the app.
A trampoline is a great way to have fun doing physical activity. Assembling a trampoline of any size (6ft to 14 ft.) is a long and enjoyable process if you know the steps and if you are just getting started, you can follow the steps below to easily assemble your kid’s or your own trampoline. A 6ft trampoline should take about two hours to create and subsequently, a 10ft. or a 14 ft. trampoline will take a bit longer. The most important thing is safety during fun. So, I will take you through a step by step 10-step procedure on how you can assemble a trampoline.
Step One: Check the Trampoline Package
Once you have the package, you have to ensure you have everything you need before assembling. The first and vital item is the trampoline manual. The manual should have a checklist of the things you need to check as you organize them on the ground. The items include:
Steel Trampoline Ladder (If your trampoline comes with a ladder)
Anchor Kit Pegs and Strings (Again, if it comes with the trampolines)
Trampoline Spring Cover and Padding
After ensuring all these items are present, you are ready for the next step.
Step Two: Gather the Tools
Ensure you have the tools listed below;
Power drill (Philips head screwdriver)
Spring pulling device
Rubber mallet
Gloves
All these ready and organized orders prepare you for the next step, which is assembling the trampoline.
Step Three: Building the Structure
Take the trampoline steel structure parts. They form the circular shape of the trampoline and the T-Joint sections. Confirm you have an equal number of T-Joints to the trampoline frame parts.
Connect and join the T-Sections to the trampoline structure parts. The purpose of the T-Sections is to provide a connection to the trampoline legs. For 6ft – 8ft trampolines, you should expect three double legs. You can now join each frame piece together to form the perfect circle. The circle is the basis of the trampoline structure. Make sure the frame is tightly connected. It should be tight enough since a frame that is too tight will rattle. You should have a design that looks like the one below.
Step Four: Assemble the Legs
With the circular border, you can proceed to add the legs. The legs join into the T-sections that we put to the structure earlier. You may need a partner to help you add one second leg and then move onto the next. Make sure the T-Joints and the legs are screwed and secured correctly. Once that is complete, you will have a structure like the one below.
Step Five: Correctly set up the Mat and springs
It is essential to ensure the mat is hole-free, the springs unused, and a spring tool is in the package. Once that is done, it is time to put on your gloves. Springs need to be fixed correctly and cautiously. Note, they bring the bouncing fun on the trampoline, so you have to certify their fixation. The following steps will help you to fix the springs correctly.
Spread the trampoline jump mat centered in the metal frame opening. For outdoor trampolines, you may want it to sit in the sun for a while as the warmth makes it stretch more hence a little easier to install.
Insert a spring, hook side down, into one of the trampoline mat’s v-rings or spring loops. Insert the other hook of the spring into a hole in the trampoline frame.
Next, on the opposite side of the trampoline, insert a spring, hook side down, into the v-ring. Pull back with a spring tool and insert the other hook of the spring into the trampoline frame.
Now, position yourself midway between the two attached springs on either side of the trampoline. Insert a spring, hook side down, into the V-ring centered between the two tied springs. Pull back with a spring pulling device and insert the other hook of the spring into the trampoline frame. Repeat the process for the other springs around the mat till you get back to the starting point. Remember to attach springs at each middle v-ring.
The springs allow even spread of tension throughout the bounce mat and springs.
In case of difficulty in spring insertion,
You can use the rubber to hammer in the spring into the frame holes.
Once all the instructions have been followed correctly, you will have a figure that looks like the one below.
Step Six: Adding a Protective Pad to the Trampoline
The protective pad helps to cushion a fall on the springs. Lay the pad over the springs. There should be holes at the bottom of the padding that lines up with the legs. Protective pads usually have metal hooks or ropes to secure the pad to the trampoline. Once you are finished attaching it, make sure that it is aligned over all of the springs. You can then add the bungee loop. These loops help to preserve the net during bouncing.
Step Seven: Including the Trampoline Enclosure Net
It resembles the one in the picture below.
It is essential to protect the jumper from falling off the trampoline after a jump. Since we have the trampoline net and steel rods, the net forms the attachment, and the steel rods create sustenance. Screw the rods together using the joints. They should easily screw, and for a 6ft trampoline, you should have three extended steel rods. Screw the rods together using the joints, as shown below.
The rods should easily screw, and for a 6ft trampoline, you should have three extended steel rods.
Step Eight: Threading the Trampoline Steel Enclosures
There’s a hole that these rods go into smoothly. Once all three are done, you join the trampoline rods together to create one sizeable circular ring, commonly as the trampoline halo. Once you have the trampoline halo setup, you attach the trampoline enclosure to the top of the trampoline—the Halo slots into the chamber. You should note that the trampoline net at the bottom is not yet secured. Avoid securing this until after the trampoline net is attached to the top. The diagram below should give you a lead to the correct directions.
Thread the string through the bottom of the trampoline enclosure net and secure it to the trampoline frame. Usually, you have to tie it to individual loops on the trampoline mat. Keep a lookout for these loops. If properly secured, the bottom will look like the one below.
You have your working trampoline with an enclosure net that will minimize accidents and injuries!
Step Nine: Positioning the Trampoline
You have to choose the best position to put your trampoline. The safest place to put a trampoline is on an even ground. Collect all the materials you used in its assembling and store them away safely since they may be needed for later use or even disassembling after use. Remember to read any warnings before you start using it.
Step Ten: Test Your Trampoline
It is crucial to test the trampoline before the original fun begins. Your trampoline awaits usage. Have fun.
Most studies define skin-to-skin contact as the practice where after the baby has been delivered it is dried and placed on the mother`s bare chest for about an hour or more.
It can also take place later and it is advisable to keep practicing skin to skin contact even way after birth. Other studies have called it Kangaroo care as it is compared to how a kangaroo keeps its young ones in its pouch thus practicing skin-to-skin contact. UNICEF has embraced the practice and has called it The Baby-Friendly Initiative. The practice has also been incorporated in the Mexican Public Health Care System
Why is skin to skin contact important?
The practice has proved to be very essential to a baby’s growth both in neonatal and other stages. Some of the key reasons why it is important are;
It allows both the mother and child to rest after the long process of parturition
It creates homeostatic balance in the baby’s body through things like thermoregulation and regulation of heart rate and breathing
It promotes breastfeeding and stimulates digestion
It also offers a chance for the mother`s good bacteria to interact with the baby’s skin which is important in preparing it for life outside the womb
Maternal hormones are stimulated and released which leads to other activities like breastfeeding
It helps an infant to develop physiological stability
It also promotes metabolic balance and optimal neurological development
What happens during skin to skin contact?
At first, both the mother and child enter a state of relaxation which in turn reduces postpartum stress for both of them. At the same time, the baby undergoes homeostatic development which helps it to adapt to the extra-uterine environment. The mother releases hormones that engage the child and might end up crying.
The cry as most studies show is characterized as brief and distinctive. The baby then relaxes with few movements. After a while, the baby wakes up and is seen to respond to the mother’s voice which is why communication is encouraged. The movements increase where the baby moves the hips, shoulders, and even the head.
The baby then finds the breasts and rests on the breasts. It is a common misconception that when the baby does this it is not hungry which is not true. The baby then attaches itself to the breast and starts feeding. At this point, they might need help in positioning them for feeding. Once feeding is complete the mother and the baby fall asleep.
Skin to skin contact in the Baby-Friendly standards
The Baby Friendly standards insist on making sure skin to skin contact is an essential concept in hospitals. They do this by setting guidelines for maternity and neonatal units.
Maternity units are supposed to ensure;
All mothers have SSC after birth for at least an hour
Mothers offer first feed once the baby shows readiness to feed
Mothers and babies who are unable to carry out SSC after birth to do so as soon as they can
Neonatal units have been charged with;
Advising parents on the need and impact of touch, comfort and communication on a baby’s health and development
Encouraging parents to provide comfort and emotional support to their babies
Ensuring that mothers receive proper care that leads to them transitioning to breastfeeding
Benefits of skin to skin contact
Development of heart and lung function
Once a baby has been safely delivered the heart and lung function are crucial to the development of the baby. Being in close contact with the mother is the closest thing to being back in the womb.
This, therefore, enables them to adapt accordingly to the environment which boosts their heart and lung functionality. Studies have shown that babies who do not get the skin to skin contact have a hard time breathing and most of the time have an elevated heart rate.
Thermoregulation
Keeping the baby in close contact with the mother ensures their warmth. In fact many doctors have argued that skin to skin contact is better than placing the baby in an incubator. It also helps them to adapt to the temperature making them more independent. This in turn ensures that they are healthy and maintain a constant body temperature
Blood sugar regulation
Babies need blood sugar for energy so that their bodies can carry out various developments. It is due to this that they need skin to skin contact so they can initiate breastfeeding so they can get the energy they need from milk. Babies born from mothers with gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of having hypoglycemia and should therefore practice skin to skin contact to stabilize their blood sugar level
Instigation of breastfeeding
Skin to skin contact plays a major role in initiating breastfeeding. During skin to skin contact hormones are released which engage the child and mother to develop certain instincts which lead to breastfeeding. It is also through skin to skin contact that the mother generates hormones which lead to the production of more milk.
Colonization of bacteria
Contact between the mother and child enables transfer of good bacteria which is key in protecting the baby from pathogens. The bacteria also help the baby to develop certain immunities which cannot be obtained in any other way. Some bacteria can break down milk proteins which the child is not able to digest thus ensuring that the baby obtains all the nutrients from breast milk.
Reduced crying among infants
Crying is an instinctive action conducted by all mammals once separated from offspring, they cry as a way to try and reconnect with parents. It therefore makes perfect sense that babies who are in skin to skin contact with their parents cry less as they are comfortable and satisfied to be with their parents. They will therefore cry less as they feel protected unlike babies who are separated from their mothers
Relief from pain and good state of mind
Various studies conducted all over show that babies tend to feel less pain when in skin to skin contact. This is because they are comfortable and hence are more relaxed which reduces the pain level. Skin to skin contact also helps to reduce fetal stress. This ensures they are in a good state of mind which in turn leads to better sleep due to a feeling of comfort and security
Communication
Mothers are encouraged to enhance communication with their babies as it is during skin to skin contact that it is most effective. Various observations have been made where babies have been seen to respond to their mother’s voice during skin to skin contact clearly showing the importance of communication during skin to skin contact.
Easier transition
Research has also shown that babies that undergo skin to skin contact have an easier transition from the womb as compared to those who don’t. They have added advantages like being more physiologically stable and better at breastfeeding. They also cry less and have a lower pain response all due to skin to skin contact. Skin to skin contact makes them feel like the time inside the womb and thus have an easier time adapting to the new environment as it seems familiar.
Bonding
Skin to skin contact greatly strengthens the bond between a mother and child as being in close contact with each other makes them develop certain instincts. This is clearly illustrated when a child is seen to respond to the mother`s voice during skin to skin contact. Touch familiarizes them with each other and even helps them develop certain instincts which help them understand each other better. The hormones released at this time also strengthen their bond as they are the reason they begin to develop certain instincts towards each other.
Mental development
Studies have shown that through skin to skin contact babies develop optimal neurological development by engaging each other. This is quite clear as some babies are seen to respond to their mother’s voice during skin to skin contact which is a sign of mental development. Activities like determining the right time to rest and the right time to breastfeed are all due to mental development. Various doctors argue that the effect is clear even in later stages of life thus making skin to skin contact very important.
Healthy weight
When babies are with their mothers during skin to skin contact they receive warmth from their mothers` body and thus don’t lose energy in generating heat thus ensuring they maintain their weight. Skin to skin contact also reduces fetal stress which if not controlled could lead to loss of weight and thus maintain a standard weight. Studies have shown that babies gain more weight when sleeping and since skin to skin contact ensures they have better sleep they therefore gain the required weight thus maintaining a healthy weight.
Increased milk supply
During skin to skin contact a mother releases more hormones which in turn lead to production of more milk which is essential to a child. Fetal movements around the breast also lead to development of certain maternal instincts which also lead to production of more milk.
Prevention of postpartum depression
Skin to skin contact ensures that both the mother and child get adequate rest which is a great way to curb postpartum stress. The comfort and security generated by skin to skin contact also help to keep the baby relaxed and thus avoiding complications that may arise due to postpartum depression. The practice also gives time for the mother and child to bond which is also another way to reduce postpartum depression
If you are in the market for a baby monitor then you are likely to encounter tons of varieties to choose from. These varieties generally fall into two main categories, the wifi, and the non-wifi baby monitors. If you have never used a baby monitor before, choosing one is likely to turn into a hassle and in this article, I’ll explain which one is best under which situation.
In summary, WiFi baby monitors rely mostly on 2.4GHz DHSS WiFi and a few also use the 5GHz frequency band. On the other hand, non-Wifi baby monitors rely either on FHSS or DECT technologies that utilize 2.4 GHz and 1.9 GHz frequency bands respectively. To make it easy for you to easily distinguish those that rely on WiFi and those that rely on other non-Wifi technologies, I have done an in-depth review broken down the major differentiating factors using a table.
Wifi Vs Non-Wifi Baby Monitors
WiFi Baby Monitor
Non-WiFi Baby Monitor
Require Wi-Fi, either 2.4 GHz Wifi or 5 GHz Wifi
Don’t require Wi-Fi
Can easily be hacked if it does not have robust security protocols
Very difficult to hack as most of them use frequency hopping spectrum (FHSS)
Longer time delay- up to 10 seconds
Unnoticeable time delay
Unlimited monitoring distance as long as you have internet connection
Limited monitoring distance of up to 1500 ft.
Most of them can record video and audio clips to the cloud or locally
A few non-wifi baby monitors have a recording feature except recent brands such as DBPower
Uses two frequency bands, 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz
Uses either 1.9 GHz or 2.4 GHz
Uses smartphone's screen as the display
Uses a dedicated screen that measures 2.4 inches to 5 inches
It comes with a smartphone app
Does not come with a smartphone app as they are not connected to the internet.
You should get a Wifi baby monitor if you are looking for a monitor that can allow you to use your phone app to view your baby’s images, videos, or to listen to audios whenever you have an internet connection. On the other hand, if security is your top priority, get a non-wifi baby monitor as they are known to be almost unhackable. The biggest difference between these two baby monitors is that Wi-Fi baby monitors are connected to the internet and they use a standard and open protocol, i.e. Wi-Fi, while non-Wi-Fi baby monitors are localized therefore they don’t require Wi-Fi.
Below are other outstanding differences between non-wifi and wifi video baby monitors:
Monitoring
Wi-Fi baby monitors require a router since they operate using Wi-Fi while non-Wi-Fi baby monitors are localized so they don’t require Wi-Fi or internet connection. Non-wifi baby monitors are most suitable for you to monitor your baby within a limited distance of up to 300 meters or up to approximately 1000 ft. A few brands, however, exceed this transmission range and can transmit signals up to 1500 ft.
In summary, get a Wifi baby monitor if you want to monitor your baby without limitation of distance. On the other hand, get a non-wifi baby monitor if you are only interested in localized video and audio monitoring that will not exceed 1500 ft.
Privacy & Security
Non-Wi-Fi baby monitors handle data transmission via frequency channels that are non-static so they are theoretically speaking unhackable hence more secure. Wi-Fi baby monitors, on the other hand, use Wi-Fi which is open to hacking by anyone with basic hacking skills.
Get a non-wifi baby monitor for guaranteed privacy and security. If you decide to go with a Wifi baby monitor, go for those that use the most advanced encryption standard, AES 256-bit encryption.
Video Display
Wifi baby monitors rely on your smartphone app to display videos of your baby. On the other hand, non-wifi baby monitors come with dedicated screens of sizes 2.4 inches to 5 inches to display the videos of your baby. It is important, however, to note that non-wifi baby monitors do have with smartphone apps as they are not connected to the internet.
Range of Transmission
The transmission scope of both Wi-Fi and non-Wi-Fi baby monitors falls under 2.4GHz as stipulated by international standards. But, in general, Wi-Fi baby monitors usually have a shorter range of transmission as compared to FHSS models.
Time Delay
Non-wifi baby monitors do not have a noticeable time delay in transmission since they use peer to peer mode. Wi-Fi baby monitors, on the other hand, transmits the feed to the cloud before transmitting it to routers and other wifi-connected devices such as your smartphone app or computer. This results in a wifi baby monitor experiencing lag in the transmission that can last for up to 10 seconds.
Video Comparison:
Conclusion:
Wifi baby monitors are excellent for ulimited-range transmission and if you use a smartphone, you’ll appreciate wifi baby monitors as they allow you to view and listen to your baby over the app. On the other hand, wifi baby monitors are known to have a lag in tranmsission of audio and videos, a lag of up to 10 ft. In addition, there can be hacked if you get a brand that does not have robust security settings.
Non-wifi baby monitors are excellent as hack-proof alternative to wifi baby monitors but they do not have smartphone apps. They mostly come with dedicated screens. You will, however, appreciate the fact that non-wifi baby monitors barely have any lag in transmission, unlike wifi baby monitors.
The months you may be spending carrying an unborn baby or carrying your newborn in the first few months after birth can take such a toll on your body. I had extreme aches myself when I had my first-born and I was able to overcome the consistent back pains and still carry my baby. As an expert in baby products now, I am excited to offer unbiased advice to parents looking for the best baby carriers that have good back support in 2020. Most moms will say that motherhood is the most life-changing, beautiful, and treasured gift they have ever experienced and I want to make it easy for you to carry your baby regardless of any back-pain.
One of the most common complaints among mothers is postpartum sciatica. In simpler terms, this is pain that occurs in areas where the sciatic nerve is found. This nerve is the longest in the body running from the lower back and down to the lower extremities. So these women complain of lower back pain, pain that radiates from the hip to the foot, and pins and needles sensation, among other symptoms.
Mostly, this condition starts in the third trimester when the weight of the growing bump compresses the sciatic nerve. Luckily, most affected moms get relief after delivering. Still, some moms perhaps due to the trauma of delivery, start to experience these troubling symptoms for the first time, and others suffer from having their preexisting back problems aggravated.
If you suffer from back pain, you can still carry your baby. In this review, we will be discussing the best carriers that you can use without hurting your back even further. We will also be sharing tips to keep that terrible back pain at bay so you can keep enjoying the sweet moments of wearing your baby.
Reviews of Best Baby Carriers with Back Support in 2020
#1. Lillebaby Complete
Lillebaby complete is the overall best carrier for you if you have back pains because it has all the features that help to alleviate back pains. The shoulder straps are wide and well-padded, and you can wear them crisscrossed, which helps to distribute the weight evenly across your back. You can also opt to wear backpack style.
It also has a wide padded waistband to help distribute the baby’s weight evenly on your hips. But it also includes lumbar support to help those with back problems by cushioning and supporting the lower back.
As for carrying options, it is a 6-in-1 baby carrier, allowing various front-facing positions, hip and back carrying styles. This is really helpful if you are suffering from back pain because you can switch to positions that feel comfortable for you.
The other thing to like is that this model has variations for all-weather wear. The airflow model has a temperature regulated panel that you zip up for warmth or zip down to reveal a cool, breathable mesh. Airflow, the best if you live in hot places, is all breathable mesh. The one above is the original version which is all cotton.
Features
Recommend for babies from 7 to 45 pounds
Carrying positions: front in (fetal, infant and toddler style), front out, hip, back
Waistband size: up to 54 inches and extra extension strap that adds 9 inches
Material: cotton and mesh versions
Pros
It has a crossable shoulder strap option
It has lumbar support
Ergonomic and approved hip safe
It has convenient storage pockets
Removable hood for
Has adjustable neck support
Has breathable mesh versions
Easy care, machine wash
Cons
It feels bulky or huge for petite moms
Some customers complain that the material feels rough and tough
It requires you to have arm flexibility or assistance to clip the buckle on the upper back
#2. Ergobaby 360
Ergobaby 360 carrier is one of the most popular in the babywearing trend with thousands of happy customers and it came second in this 2020 list of best carriers for back support. It is a great carrier for anyone suffering from back pain.
This carrier is designed with comfort in mind. The shoulders are wide and padded to avoid putting any stress on your shoulders. The waistbelt is also wide with lumbar support at the back. Thus, the baby’s weight is distributed evenly on your shoulders and back, without causing you any discomfort.
Even if you are petite or plus size this carrier is very adjustable with the velcro waistband to give you a comfortable fit. It is also versatile, giving you many carrying positions that will be comfortable for you and enjoyable to your little one.
And whenever you are strolling in the sun, your baby stays protected with the provided hood which also doubles up for a cover for discreet breastfeeding.
This is also one of the carriers that have a wide range of color and pattern options that look amazing for both mom and dad.
Features
Recommended for babies from 12 to 45 pounds ( or from 7 pounds with infant insert, bought separately)
Carrying positions: front in, front out, hip, back
Material: cotton
Waistband: up to 52 inches
Pros
Wide and padded shoulder straps
Wide waist belt with lumbar support
Ergonomic and certified hip-healthy
Allows discreet breastfeeding
Tons of color options to choose from
Easy care, machine washable
Cons
Requires an infant insert at an extra cost
Reviewers find the velcro annoyingly loud
It is hard to reach the clasp for the shoulder straps
It does not have pockets
#3. Babysteps Hip Seat
Babysteps Hip Seat
BabySteps Hip Seat is one of the hip seat carriers that are great for people with back pain because it has a detachable panel that allows you to carry the baby backpack style or with the hip seat alone. It is our 3rd best carrier for support of any parent’s back in 2020.
The hip seat is attached to a wide velcro waist belt to distribute the weight evenly over your hips. If you also attach the carrier panel with comfy shoulder straps, the weight is distributed even more nicely over your shoulders and hips, helping to alleviate discomfort on your back.
It is a highly versatile carrier offering up to six positions with the shoulder straps and some with the hip seat alone. Additionally, it comes with an extra strap to use around your neck without the shoulder straps for supporting a weightier toddler in the hip seat hand-free. As you can see, if you have a bad back, you have many adjusting options to help alleviate your pain. However, keep in mind that with a hip seat, it really depends on where your injury is because it places the weight on the belt and around your waist.
If you want to go out, but you don’t want to carry a purse, this carrier has a convenient pocket at the waistband and another one in front to keep a few handy items, keys, phones, cash, etc. and, this pocket opens to reveal breathable mesh if it gets too hot in the day.
The other thing that you will love about this carrier is that all the buckles and clips are easily accessible, making it easy to wear and take off on your own.
Features
Recommended for babies from 8 to 44 pounds
Carrying positions: front in, front out, back, hip facing in, hip facing out
Material: 100% cotton and polyester
Waist belt: up to 48.8 inches
Pros
Hip seat with padded straps for even weight distribution
Has a wide waistband to provide back support
Convenient storage pockets
Has protective and privacy hood
Highly versatile
Great pricing
Cons
Reviewers say that the clips are of poor quality hence break easily
The side clips squeak when walking
It can overheat
Might not fit some plus size people
#4. Baby K’tan wrap
Baby K’tan wrap
Baby K’tan is famously the no-wrap wrap; you don’t need to wrap and is the 4th on our list of best baby carriers for back support. It has patented double loops, so you slip over your head and put your arms through the loops like wearing a T-shirt. It has sizes from XXS to XL, so you just use your dress size or shirt size to select the K’tan that will fit you.
This is another option to explore because apart from affording you the natural feel and snugness of a wrap, the design can also help some people with bad backs. When wearing the baby in this carrier, the baby actually sits high on your torso so the weight is not placed around your waist or hips, which helps relieve any pain you may be having on your lower back.
As you can see from the picture above, the shoulder straps are worn crisscrossed and bound together, which helps to distribute weight evenly on your upper back and shoulders. They are also wide so as not to dig into your shoulders and you can still spread the material over your shoulder even more to get better weight distribution. However, because the weight concentrates on the upper back and shoulders rather than also spreading to the waist and hips, it may trigger soreness and pain for some people, especially the busty moms.
It is also a versatile carrier giving you 5 different carrying positions so you can switch to any that feels comfortable and enjoyable for you and your baby.
Baby K’tan also has other models for summer wear. They have a Breeze model with mesh on one to keep you cool, and an Active model with mesh, UVA protection, and moisture-wicking fabric, ensuring you are not drenching in sweat.
Features
Recommended for newborn up to 35 pounds
Carrying positions: front facing in (kangaroo and hug), front-facing out, front-facing sideways, hip.
Material: cotton, versions of the mesh
Size: XXL to XL
Pros
Easiest to wear
Excellent shoulder support
Versatile, five carrying positions
Allows breastfeeding
Easy care, Machine wash, and dryer safe
Approved hip-healthy
Cons
Might be tricky for some people to find a fitting size
Does not have a hood or pocket
Not flexible to accommodate different wearers, no sharing
Uneven weight distribution may cause shoulder pain for some wearers
#5. Ergobaby Omni 360 all-in-one cool air mesh baby carrier
If you are looking for a back-support carrier with a breathable air mesh, Ergoaby Omni 360 is your best option. This carrier shares a lot of similarities with the Ergo original we saw above, but there are a few differences. The first obvious difference is that the Cool version is all mesh while the original 360 was cotton. This is the carrier to choose if you live in hot places. Second, the Cool version has a buckle waist belt instead of velcro which customers disliked in the original Ergo due to the loudness.
The Ergo cool air mesh carrier is well designed, premium quality materials, and adjustable to fit all body types. It has cushy shoulder straps, a wide waistband, and padded lumbar support, making it super comfortable to wear even with a bad back.
This carrier allows all carry positions (front, hip, and back), so you can adjust to whatever you find comfortable and enjoyable for you and your little one. The good thing is that it distributes weight evenly across the shoulders and hips so as not to strain your back.
Features
Recommended for babies from 12 to 45 pounds or from 7pounds with an infant insert, bought separately
Carrying positions: Front inward, front-outward, hip, back
Material: mesh
Waistband size: up to 54 inches
Pros
Lightweight and breathable
Various stylish designs to choose from
Wide waistband with lumbar support
It has padded shoulder straps
UVA 50 tuck-able hood
Ergonomic
Machine washable
Cons
It does not have pockets
Some customers complain that the mesh fabric is hard and scratchy
#6. Nuna Cudl carrier
Nuna Cudl is a new carrier that just hit the market in June this year, so it does not have a lot of reviews and it is our 5th best baby carrier most suitable for back support. However, it is stylish, innovative, safe, and comfortable for you and the baby.
This carrier can be used from birth up to 4 years with the integrated infant booster to hold babies four months and below more comfortably. It allows you to carry facing in, facing out, and back depending on your baby’s age.
If you suffer from a bad back, this carrier may work well for you because it has cushy shoulder straps and a wide waist belt to distribute the weight evenly on your hips and shoulders.
You will also love its innovative design with magnetic buckles that make wearing and taking off a breeze. Plus a convenient pocket for small handy items and two organic cotton bibs included.
You will also not be sweating buckets, because this carrier is all meshy and airy, keeping you and the baby comfortably cool under hot weather.
Features
Recommended for babies from 0 to 4 years
Carrying positions: facing in, facing out, back
Material: Oeko-Tex with mesh
Waistband size: up to 57 inches
Pros
Premium quality and stylish
Approved hip-healthy
Wide padded shoulders and waistband for comfort
Includes convenient pockets and two bibs
Easy wear, magnetic buckles
Breathable mesh fabric
Includes infant booster to support small babies
Cons
Expensive
Does not have lumbar support
#7. Zarpar Bebe Bohemian Sands Snap Baby Carrier
Zarpar Bebe Snap Baby Carrier is an Australian wrap made in Nepal and Indonesia. It is designed like a wrap but with ease of buckles.
It is made with linen fabric making it lightweight, absorbent, and cool- the perfect carrier for summer adventures.
It provides an ergonomic seating position for the baby, with front and back carrying modes. With wide shoulder straps that are worn crisscrossed across your back and a wide padded waistband, the baby weight is evenly distributed, keeping you in proper posture and comfort.
The other impressive thing with this carrier is that it is very simple to use and doesn’t require any assistance to wear. The buckles secure at the front, making it easy and quick to wear or take off. The shoulder straps and belt are also easy to adjust to fit multiple wearers.
Moms will also love that they can breastfeed on the move. You can loosen the straps to lower the baby and shift the waistband to the side you want to nurse from. The large hood will keep things discrete from curious eyes as well as shield your baby from the sun or wind.
Features
Recommended for babies from 4 months (5.5 kgs to 15 kgs)
Wide and crossable shoulder straps to distribute weight evenly
Easily adjustable panels
Suitable for all body types
Machine washable
Cons
Does not allow front facing out carrying position
#8. BabyBjorn baby carrier one – ergonomic edition
BabyBjorn ergonomic edition is a very stylish carrier designed with comfort in mind. This version uses soft materials that feel cozy for your baby.
If you have a bad back, this carrier has form-fitting shoulder straps and a sturdy waist belt, so you will hardly feel weighed down as you carry your little one. The wide waist belt helps support your back and distribute the weight on your hips, preventing any discomfort on the shoulders and back.
This carrier keeps your baby in the recommended ergonomic position where thighs are supported to almost knee level to allow healthy hips development. And it will enable you to switch between four carrying positions to keep your baby happy and ensure you are comfortable.
Features
Recommended for newborns up to 3 years/ 8 to 33 pounds
Carry positions: front in, facing out, back
Material: Oeko-tex tested fabrics
Pros
Soft and plush padded for comfort
Does not need an infant insert
Has padded shoulders and a sturdy waist belt
Acknowledged hip-healthy
Machine washable
Cons
Hard to adjust the strap joining the shoulder straps on your upper back on your own
No lumbar support
No hip carry option
7 tips for preventing child wearing back pain
There are set guidelines stating how many hours you should spend carrying your baby, but it is wise that you cut down the duration as soon as you start having discomfort. You can also use the following tips to avoid pain on your back:
When carrying the baby in front of your body, position the baby high enough that you can easily kiss the top of their head. This helps to minimize pressure on your back.
Tighten the carrier to keep the baby as close to your body as possible. Wearing the baby too loose increases pressure on your lower back.
When using a soft structured carrier, ensure you secure the waistband tightly over your hips so that the baby’s weight is on your hips instead of your back.
When wearing the shoulder straps of your SSC, ensure you tighten them sufficiently and evenly.
Switch to back carry position when your toddler reaches 6 months or 20 pounds. Carrying a heavy baby from the front strains your back and can cause lower back pain.
Consider back wearing once your baby is old enough to support their head. Avoid the forward-facing position on your front because it can place pressure on your lower back and pelvic floor, leading to many undesirable issues like back pain and urinary incontinence.
If you have suffered from back pain in the past, you can still be able to carry your baby. Talk to your doctor or physiotherapist first to get the go-ahead. They will also advise you on how best to carry depending on where your injury was. Then select a carrier that is designed to distribute the baby’s weight evenly across your shoulders and hips.
Buyer guide – what to consider when buying carriers for back pain
There are different types of carriers that you can use even if you suffer from back pain. Below are some factors you need to consider as you look for a suitable carrier that won’t worsen your problem:
Your child’s age
Some carriers work better for newborns others for older babies. For instance, a wrap gives the best carrying positions for preemies and newborns and can be used until 15 pounds. On the other hand, Soft-structured carriers are great for bigger babies and have a higher weight capacity up to about 45 pounds.
Ergonomic
Since you will be carrying your baby from their first months of life to a year, you want a carrier that keeps them seated in an ergonomic position. For newborns and preemies, their legs should stay together and tuck with their back curved. For infants above three months, the carrier should support their thighs and buttocks so that the legs are not dangling to encourage the hips to develop normally.
Reliability and safety
When you choose a carrier, you need to be confident that it is safe for your baby. Start by checking the weight and height restriction on the carrier before putting your baby in it. Ensure it is well made to endure long periods of babywearing without the zippers, buckles, and seams coming undone. It should also have enough room for your baby to wiggle a bit without being too loose that they can fall out. And it should be able to support your baby’s neck.
Fitting
Although most carriers have a universal fit and can be shared with family members, some are size-specific. It is a good idea to try a carrier before you buy to ensure it fits comfortably, and it does not cause pain on your back.
Versatility
You want a carrier that offers you multiple carry positions. If you have a bad back, a carrier that allows front carry is great so that you can take the weight off your lower back.
Comfort
No matter how safe or nice-looking a carrier is if it is not comfortable for the baby and you, it is not worth considering. You want soft materials, padding in the right places, and wide shoulder straps and waistband to distribute the weight so as not to strain your back or shoulders even with long wear. Also, consider airy material if you will be babywearing in hot weather.
Weight of the carrier
If you already have back problems you don’t want to compound your misery with a carrier that weighs a ton on top of your already weighty baby. Choose a safe, comfortable, and lightweight carrier. Avoid those with heavy materials and heavy frames.
Ease of use
There is always a bit of a learning curve when you first start using a baby carrier but some are easier than others. Wraps are especially difficult for a beginner and also some SSCs that have so many pieces of buckles, straps, zippers that can be confusing.
If you have to get a headache and take hours just to wear a carrier, it’s not worth it. Choose a carrier you can use with ease. And if you can wear it faster on your own it is even better.
Ease of Cleaning
Messes come hand in hand with a baby. Choose a carrier that you can conveniently toss in the machine for easy cleaning and drying. It will help keep it looking fresh and prolong user life. Some models recommend only spot cleaning others recommend air drying only. Consider what is workable for your situation.
Types of baby carriers
Basically, there are five different types of carriers. Each has its own unique characteristics, so you need to consider which ones are most desirable for you in a carrier. The five types of carriers are:
Wrap
Ring sling
Soft Structured carriers
Mei-Tai
Baby pouch/ pouch slings
Babywearing tips for those with high back pain
If you normally experience pain in your upper back, below are a few points tokeep in mind as you wear your baby, so as not to hurt your back even further:
Lift your baby carefully when placing your baby in the carrier at all times
Bend your knees as you lift the baby into the carrier
Avoid jumping and bouncing games while carrying the baby; sudden movements can cause the buckles or snaps to come undone.
Start babywearing for a few minutes then progress to longer and longer durations as you feel comfortably possible.
Choose a carrier that distributes weight evenly on your hips to relieve upper back and wear the baby close to your body as possible.
How to wear a baby carrier if you have back pain
The following are some principles to apply when wearing a baby carrier if you have a bad back or a history of bad backs.
Don’t let your baby slant forward because it will cause you to bend your back to support the weight, and could lead to strain and muscle or joint injury. The idea is to keep your baby close to you in an upright position so you can also maintain the correct posture.
Secure the straps tightly to keep the baby stable and not sagging; this, in turn, keeps your back from slouching, which causes pain.
Choose front carry over a back position to avoid placing unnecessary strain on the back muscles.
Why use a baby carrier & benefits
Holding the baby close in a carrier helps the baby feel loved, happy, and gives them a better playful mood.
Close contact with your baby boosts breast milk production and promotes frequent breastfeeding.
Walking around bearing the baby’s weight also counts as a great form of exercising.
A carrier puts the baby at almost eye level, which promotes early speech development from constantly learning your facial expressions and speech patterns.
Wearing your baby is a convenient option to keep your baby close and remain hands-free to attend to do other stuff. It also gives you the freedom of going to anywhere without lugging heavy car seats or strollers- imagine crowed places and stairs.
When your baby held so close to you in a carrier, they feel safe and protected.
It has been shown by research to promote better digestion, respiratory health, emotional wellbeing, better sleep, and more.
Carrying With Back Pain
Which carrier position for a bad back?
If you have a bad back carrying your baby in a position that distributes the baby’s weight poorly across your tummy will cause your pelvis to incline forward and your spine to be more arched than normal and may make your back pain.
Here are some ways you can carry the baby without hurting your back further:
Carry the baby higher up in the front facing position to minimize back pain
Place the baby in the middle of your back, so their weight is distributed evenly on your hips to ease the pressure on your spine.
Keep in mind these are just general guidelines, and that the best position for you would depend on your specific injury. So if you are looking for a suitable carrier, choose one that gives you the option of both fronts and back carries.
A hip seat carrier is a great choice for people with back problems. It consists of a wide waistband with a padded shelf-like seat for the baby. It helps by having the baby’s weight supported by the sturdy seat and belt rather than your back. But it can also worsen the pain for some people depending on the area of injury.
Some hip seats models do not have straps, so you support your baby by holding them close on one or both hands. Other models have removable panels that attach to the waistband allowing you to be hands-free. For anyone with back pain we recommend getting a hip seat model that also has straps to help balance the weight.
It is also a versatile carrier allowing you to carry the baby from the front, hip and back. However, we do not recommend carrying the baby at your side if you have back problems because the weight will pull on your spine unevenly.
Go for good adjustability and several positions
Choose a carrier that allows you to adjust the position where your baby is sitting. That way, if you feel sore in a particular spot, you can shift your baby a bit higher or lower, front or back to get some relief.
Shoulder straps – structure and padding is better
Some baby carriers have shoulder straps in H-style like a backpack with a clip at the back of the head to connect them. This is not the best style for anyone with back pain.
The best carrier designed to distribute weight evenly on your shoulders should have the straps permanently joined into an X-shape or Y shape. A good example is a carrier from Stokke My Carrier shown in the picture above. When the straps are also connected to the waist belt, it helps to distribute the weight evenly on the waistband even further. Even weight distribution not only ensures you are comfortable when carrying your baby but also great for your back.
Lumbar support
Consider a carrier with lumbar support on the waist belt like this one on the picture above. Lumbar support is designed to stabilize and cushion your lower back. It helps relieve lower back pressure and allow the baby’s weight to be evenly distributed for a more comfy ride.
Avoid the ring sling
Carrying the baby in a ring sling puts the weight on one shoulder resulting in your body being weighed down on one side and consequently placing pressure on one side of your lower back. You are better off with a carrier that spreads the weight across both shoulders evenly like a wrap.
Now that you know what to avoid and what to look for in a carrier, let’s get to the best carriers for people with back pain
Amazon.com
