While there was a lot that we knew, this time around, there was still a learning curve... how to both care for a newborn, who needs lots of snuggle time, while chasing around a toddler who needs a lot of attention too.
When Laila was born, she spent most of her times snuggled on a couch with someone at all times. That was not so much an option for Ian since we had a toddler to run after. We needed to learn quickly how to keep him safe and comfortable attached to us while keeping our arms free. The fabric baby became my best friend. Ian loved it and lived in it. We would play at school with Laila for nearly an hour daily while he slept away. I was blessed to have the ability to do that, and Laila was able to feel special that her mommy was in class with her. Instead of being a rival or taking mommy away from her, she saw Ian as increasing her bonding time with me. As a result, Ian became the class baby. He was the practice baby for the other littles who were becoming big siblings soon.
The snuggle time was incredible for our bonding and for me to develop the confidence in providing him with constant comfort while also getting tasks and errands done. Cody also got this time with Ian. As a belated father's day gift, I got him the lalabu baby carrier shirt. If Ian wasn't on me or eating, he was in the shirt for the first five months of his life. This shirt became our new go-to baby gift for everyone we know.
After five months, my back needed a bit more support. We were generously gifted the artipoppe carrier and I absolutely loved it. It was a lot more comfortable, for me, than our previous one. I wear it at home, daycare, while running errands, through the airport, and most of the day at Disney World.
Balancing snuggle time for a baby and attuned playtime and snuggle time to a toddler isn't easy. They are both on very different schedules and both need very different things.
Laila started to have an interest in helping me cook and bake. Her toddler kitchen stand became really helpful. This was one of those bonding times that she loved having with me. We would also do different activities from the mothercould packets, all while I was wearing Ian.
Cotton/Linen/Bamboo Baby Wraps and Carriers
xoxo,
Shana Bryn
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