The Containerization of Infants

March 8, 2010

Filed under: Baby Tips — admin @ 9:34 pm

A recent research study replicated a study done in the 1940’s, in which psychological researchers asked kids age 3, 5, and 7 to do a number of exercises…Today’s 5 year olds were acting at a level of 3 year olds, 60 years ago, and today’s 7 year olds were barely approaching the level of the 5 year old (1, 4, 5).” In the 1940’s, children were reported to walk at 8-12 months of age, now children are reported to begin walking at 12-15 months of age (2). Realistically speaking that is only a generation ago; that’s a huge decline in functional performance in a relatively short time span.

I found this phenomenon to be most interesting and also terrifying. Many considerations were outlined as possible causes, including genetics, birth process, nutrition, change in parenting, information gap, lack of play, overly structured childcare, etc. However, one plausible contributing factor called “containerization of infants” seemed an obvious and early implication for this trend. I decided to research this topic further and was astounded by what I found.

Containerization of infants is defined as “confining them to strollers, playpens, high chairs, and car/infant seats for hours at a time.” Developmental delays in motor milestones such as rolling over, crawling, and walking can occur with this type of confinement (3). It is, of course, recommended that parents interact with infants in daily physical activities that promote exploration. Explorative play is an important part of child development as play becomes the cornerstone of learning about the body, the environment, and how the self relates to the world. The environment provides the motivation for movement through visual interest – and movement provides the brain constant feedback regarding body in space, muscle use, touch, and hand-eye coordination.

Many parents are not even aware of how much their infants have become containerized. We live in a day in age where both parents work, people have extremely busy schedules, and technology and more products have allowed us to continue the rigors of daily living with a baby in tote. For example a mother can place her baby in an infant seat, get ready to go out, take that infant seat and attach it as a car seat, drive to a destination, take the seat out of the car and place it in a grocery cart for easy shopping, place the seat back in the car, drive home. It’s a convenience that is hard to beat and mothers can be seen anywhere holding their babies via plastic handle. However, from the perspective of the baby – there is low motor stimulation, virtually no positional changes, low or unchanging touch stimulation, and visual stimulation that is limited to a continuum of ceiling, potentially for several hours a day.

To fully grasp this containerization theory and compare the babies of today to the babies of higher functioning yesteryear, it is most imperative to take a look at each of the senses separately:
The vestibular system is the unifying system, giving us a sense of where we stand; movement stimulates the “vestibule” in the inner ear (1). Vestibular stimulus involves the movement of head through space including linear, angular, orbital, and rotary directions (6). In other words, as movement takes place the brain is processing information about where the body is in space. With regard to containerization theory, babies that spend too much time in containers would not experience movement to the degree that is required for learning and developing gravitational security. Gravitational security is feeling safe during movement with a confident idea of where your body is in space.

The proprioceptive system refers to sensory messages about the position, force, direction, and movement of body parts. Our muscles/joints send messages to the brain as they contract, stretch, bend, and straighten. This gives us a “position sense” (1). Containerized babies tend to remain in one position only or with movement allowed to take place on only one plane. There is little opportunity for meaningful changes in position that allow for muscular input/output. Babies naturally tend to engage in yoga-like moves as they learn to roll, crawl, walk, etc; containers simply do not allow for this type of innate mind-body exercise.

The tactile system includes temperature and texture. This system is designed to alert us to threats and gives the body boundaries – it is the basis for body image (6). The tactile system of a containerized baby is likely under-stimulated with a typical social input being experienced to a much lesser degree.

The visual system involves the left and right brain working together to produce visual-spatial processing skills (1). While acuity is often thought of first with regard to vision, being able to process lighting, likenesses/differences, spatial relationships, and the tracking of moving objects is also imperative. Containerization for long periods of time may not offer appropriate visual stimuli, depending on the position of baby in the carrier and the position of the carrier itself.

Orientation and organization of these senses are required for development of skills later in life. Children need to interpret vestibular information in order to develop postural control, balance, cross midline, discriminate between left/right, and understand concepts such as up/down, in front/behind. Proprioceptive information requires correct interpretation in order to maintain upright posture, motor plan body movements, grasp with appropriate pressure, and use the right amount of muscle force during daily activities. Development of the tactile system allows for the detection of size, form, contour, texture, and movement across the skin; functional implications being to tolerate clothing, unexpected social touch, bathing, haircuts, dental care, etc. (7) And the visual system is imperative to not only acuity, but fixation, depth perception, peripheral awareness, and saccades; these are functional requirements for motor coordination, safety, and successful navigation through a community setting.

As we look back at how infants were cared for one to two generations ago, we can imagine that infants had much more exposure to movement and seeing the world from changing angles and depths. It is more likely that a mother of generations ago would put her baby in one arm or on her hip and go about her day; the baby at that point experiences several positional changes from the mother’s body moving, as well as from the mother likely changing holds on the baby. In this manner, the baby is then experiencing changing vestibular and proprioceptive inputs that are natural to a mother’s movement and gravitational force. Baby-carrying provides the elements of pressure, motion, pleasure, warmth, security, sound that is essential to the development of the vestibular nervous system (8). Seeing the world from varying angles is experienced - not only via changes in position in space by being carried, but also by moving closer and further away from objects of fixation as the mother moves. Touch could be characterized as constant, with fluctuations in pressure, quick/light touches, friction, and temperature. Carrying a baby offers realistic sensory inputs natural to human and environmental experience, while containers often shield these inputs from becoming a part of neurological growth.
Carrying your baby at all times or leaving him/her unattended is certainly not the answer – everything in moderation is the key to a successful and holistic plan. Carrying, tummy time, sitting time, rest (potentially per container), and physical play with opportunity to move about are all equally important. Containers can offer safety and convenience at important times, yet the long-term implications of overuse are dramatic and a factor that is quite obviously changing our population as a whole.

Resources:
(1) Effective Neurological Management of Sensory Processing Disorder, Course Workbook, www.crosscountryeducation.com, Written & Presented by Charlene Young, OTR/L, CEAS.
(2) Young, Charlene. Speaker notes.
(3) National Association for Sport and Physical Education
(4) Education Advocate, A Publication of the Commonwealth Education Organization. May/June 2008, Vol. 9, No. 3
(5) Speigel, Alex. Old-Fashioned Play Builds Serious Skills. www.npr.org
(6) Autism Society of Michigan
(7) Understanding Sensory Processing/Integration with Remediation Strategies for the Home/School Environment, Course Workbook, Written by Cynthia Ann Clemens, OTR/L.
(8) 43 Reasons to Carry Your Baby http://www.instinctiveparenting.com/flex/43_reasons_to_carry_your_baby/73/1

Using a Pouch Style Baby Sling with Twins!

March 4, 2010

Filed under: Baby Slings, How to use a baby sling, baby carrier for twins — admin @ 6:01 pm

We have had numerous requests recently on information for using a pouch style baby sling with twins. There is nothing easy about caring for two children at once, and we hope that getting your hands back for any amount of time will make your life a little easier!  Moms love the idea of the simplicity of pouch style baby slings, and we would love to give a little direction on how to use them.  We are always here to help moms simplify their life, and with twins on the way, you will need all the help that you can get!

Here are few pictures of a moms with twins who purchased slings from us.  They were was amazed at how easy and comfortable it was to hold both babies and toddlers!

Here is a mom that we met in Midway, UT who was so thrilled to be able to carry her infants in two baby slings.  After putting the first baby into the sling, she was able to slide the baby sling to her side to allow space for the other baby.  After putting on the second sling and cradling her infant into the second sling she slid it to the other side until both babies felt comfortable and secure.

Here is another mom we met in Sandy, UT who had twins who were about 6 months old.  They are at the age where they enjoy sitting upright and looking out at their world.  We suggested the hip carry for her girls.  She was amazed at how comfortable it was to hold both of her girls at once.  She put the first sling on and helped her daughter into the sling.  Then she was able to add the other sling to her opposite shoulder and put her sister in!  The girls loved being in eye contact with each other and with mom.

The wonderful thing about our baby carriers, is that you can use them to carry your two kids for about 3 years.  They truly do grow with your child, carrying them in a variety of comfortable positions as they grow.  From infant to toddler you can have the ease and comfort of carrying your kids around while keeping your arms free to get everything else in your life done!

Just like everything else with twins, you will have to buy two slings in order to carry both children.  However, with the separate slings you also have the option of only using one sling and carry one child while someone else uses the other sling to carry the other child!

If you feel like you need some additional help with how to use a baby sling or just need help your baby sling size, do not hesitate to contact our customer service experts at 303-910-2200!  We are always happy to help!

Another baby sling wearing question….

February 22, 2010

Filed under: Baby Slings — admin @ 2:26 pm

Here is another question from one of our baby wearing mamas!

My concern is that my baby will topple out of the sling, is there something about Mod Mum, or the way that you carried your son that will alleviate my fears?

Mod Mum baby slings are cut extra wide to ensure that the pocket for your baby is large enough that the baby is safe and snug in the pouch.  Being so wide, you can even breast feed your baby in the sling and have full coverage!
Getting the right fit with your baby sling is so important. (Generally just your shirt size)  Some women carry babies in slings that hang down to where the baby came out!  The baby swings around when they move, and does not feel secure…  Your sling should hit right at the belly button to an inch below.  When your sling is the right size, they are snug against your body, and do not move around.  It feels like they are almost a part of your body again without all the bad parts of pregnancy!  Having a snug fitted sling also alleviates back pain, as you are holding the baby at your center of gravity.  You can check out the instructional videos on How to wear a baby sling. Hope this Helps!

How to Use a Baby Sling

January 19, 2010

Filed under: Baby Slings, How to use a baby sling — admin @ 10:57 pm

We love getting questions from mom’s on the best ways to use their baby slings!  We have decided to start posting some of the questions on the blog with our answers to help all you mom’s out there! 

Heather asked:

Hello, I read on your wearing guide that you can carry your baby in the cradle position up to 9 months. Do you have an approximate weight and/or length? Our son is 4 1/2 months and is currently 16.5 pounds and 26″ long.
Thanks!
Heather

Hey Heather,
 
Most kids at that age like to be in more of a sitting cradle position while they are awake.  Simply put them in the sling sitting up slightly and allow their head and arms to remain out of the sling.  Ensure that your sling is pulled up to the babies armpits, so that they are safe and secure between the folds.   At four months babies are becoming very alert to their world around them and will love to look out.  It is incredibly stimulating for them to see the world at your level.  When your baby gets tired, you can simply lay them back between the two folds of fabric and let them sleep while their entire body and head are supported by the sling. 
 
My son loved to sit and sleep like this until he was 10 months old.  Each child will vary in how long they will comfortable they will be sleeping in this position.
 
After kids are too long for the cradle carry, they will love cozying up to you in the hip carry.  When they get tired, just pull the fabric all the way up to their shoulders and they can sleep comfortably in that position with their head resting against your chest.  You can also move them around to the front of your body for a cozy belly to belly
 cradle!
 
Thank you very much for contacting us.  Please do not hesitate to let me know if you have any other questions!
 
Thanks, Lisa

Keep the question coming moms!  We love to hear from you.

Win a Baby Sling Today!!!

December 15, 2009

Filed under: Baby Slings, Win a baby sling — admin @ 2:05 pm

We have partnered with Debra from Familylicious Reviews for another great giveaway!!!

Check out her blog to see the review of Mod Mum baby slings!  Here are some highlights from her review…

My baby wearing fanaticism has hit a new level. I have found some really gorgeous pouches. Mod Mum slings are just beautiful. I love wearing them. Mikey and Kaia love this sling as well. It is so very comfortable and functional. I love that Mod Mum slings are reversible as well. How great is that two slings in one! Mod Mum Baby Slings are great for wearing your baby wherever. I love wearing these Baby Slings to the park.

Mum has a great page to show you How to Wear Your Sling . I love that they make Slings for Dad’s as well. I have had Mike wear the kids on several occasions. He got used to it and now he loves it. The only thing is most slings are a little on the feminine side. Mod Mum makes excellent slings for men to though. I love their statement “Real men carry their babies! “ How awesome and True is that! I am just in love with these beautiful slings.

Read more and see details on her site for entries…

Hurry because the giveaway ends on December 31st!

Why Moms Love our Baby Slings

December 14, 2009

Filed under: Baby Slings, Why buy a Mod Mum Baby Sling — admin @ 2:47 pm

Here are some of the reasons that moms love our baby slings:

  • What other baby products can you buy for about $50 and use from birth through toddler hood? Our baby slings! Of all the products that a mother invests in, this is the one that she will use every day for 3-4 years. Babies and toddlers sit in a variety of comfortable positions as they grow. In these tough economic times, that is some serious bank for the buck!  We have slings at a variety of prices for any budget.  Three cheers for an affordable baby sling!
  • Our baby slings are made in the USA! You know that our products are made with the highest standards, by a team of professional seamstresses. Utah to be exact… no sweatshops here!
  • Who wants to look like you are wearing camping gear while carrying your baby! Our slings reflect a mother’s style and make her feel confident.
  • Baby slings allow a mom’s to hold their baby in the same positions you would carry your baby naturally. This makes it much more comfortable for mom, while keeping your baby much more content. Your baby’s neck and spine are fully supported, while their body is cradled into their mother. The only difference is that your hands are free!

  • Our slings are easy and quick to use. Who has five minutes to wrap themselves in a carrier every time they need it! Instead of using a team of people to get your baby in, moms can get their baby in and out of the sling in a matter of seconds. If your carrier isn’t easy to use, guess what… you won’t use it! With instructional videos on how to use a baby sling available on our website and customer support a phone call away, we always want to ensure that our customers are satisfied. If not, no problem we are happy to provide a full refund.

  • Who wants to carry a carrier for their baby carrier… not me! Our slings are small and sleek. They easily fit in your purse or diaper bag, or your husband’s back pocket! When you purchase a baby carrier it is because there are times as a mother that you need your hands free. It is easy to always have a sling on you, which means that you really use it.
  • There is nothing like wearing a blanket around your entire body on a hot summer day, just to carry your baby. Our slings are made of 100% cotton and Cotton Spandex blends. The cotton fabrics make them breathable and comfortable. Your body heat will keep your baby plenty toasty.
  • You can breastfeed in our baby slings!  Yes that is right, no need for a nursing cover as it is like getting two products in one.  Our slings are made much wider than many of our competitors.  This allows you to position baby at the breast comfortably with plenty of fabric to have full coverage for yourself.  The best part is…  no one even knows that you are breastfeeding.  This is wonderful when you need to feed your baby in a not so desirable location.
  • We support other moms! We employ, support and love all moms and do our best to employ them any chance we get!

Christmas Baby Sling Giveaway

December 11, 2009

Filed under: Baby Slings, Win a baby sling — admin @ 3:40 pm

We are back with another baby sling giveaway!  We love to partner with fantastic mom blogs to offer great deals and giveaways!  Crazy Beautiful Women is giving away one of our baby slings of your choice!  That is right, you pick the sling that fits your style best to show off that little bundle!  If you haven’t tried a baby sling yet, now is your chance to enjoy the comfort of carrying your baby in a baby sling.

Enter Here: http://www.crazibeautiful.com/GettinCrazi/?postID=716

You can get additional entries by becoming a fan of Mod Mum on Facebook, or follow Mod Mum on Twitter andTweet: I am trying to win a Mod Mum Baby Sling ($74 value!) @ http://www.crazibeautiful.com/GettinCrazi/

Hurry to her site as the contest ends soon!  Don’t miss out!

Baby Sling Giveaway Today

November 16, 2009

Filed under: Baby Slings, Win a baby sling — admin @ 1:52 pm

Who loves getting something for free?  We do, and that is why we have partnered with A Giveaway Every Day to offer a free baby sling of your choice to one of the lucky entrants.  There are lots of different ways to enter the contest, so increase your chances of winning a baby sling by doing them all!

We sent Hollie a baby sling to try out and let us know what she thought.  A lot of Moms tend to think that you can only use a baby sling with an infant.  Hollie has a one year old and you can read below to hear what she thought about her sling:

Mod Mum Baby Slings are the perfect way to hold your baby. Whether they are 1 day old or 1 year old this sling will grow with them.

Mod Mum sent me the Maya Baby Sling3_thMaya sling to try out. I was so excited as I have always wanted one of these baby slings. I see moms carrying their kiddos in them all the time around my area and they look so fun. When the Maya arrived at my door step, I opened it in excitement and immediately put it on. In went my 1 year old with no problem. Right now he weighs around 23 pounds. He simply sat on my hip hands free in this sling. I {heart} this sling. I love the freedom it gives me when my little one begs to be held, but I am busy doing household chores. I can simply put him in the sling within a few seconds and I can finish up cooking dinner or folding laundry. He can even sit on my hip while we are at the grocery store or visiting local craft fairs. He sits comfortably because there is extra padding in the hip part of the sling. I love that he is comfortable too! It also reverses to a black sling so his daddy can use it too. What a great feature. So you are really getting a 2-in-1 sling with the Maya.

Thanks Mod Mum for such a great high quality sling…we {heart} it!

Visit A Giveaway Everyday to enter the contest here! Mod Mum Baby Sling Giveaway

Good Luck!!!

A touching Baby Sling story…

November 13, 2009

Filed under: Baby Slings, Mod Mum's — admin @ 3:08 pm

At one of our recent shows, we experienced a very touching story from a mother with Down syndrome child.  One of her struggles with caring for her 2 year old daughter, was that she did not cling to her while she was carrying her on her hip.  Carrying all of the weight of her child was an incredible strain on her arms and back.  When she put her in the baby sling she couldn’t believe how easy it was to carry her child!   The sling completely supported her daughter’s body in the natural position she carried her in most.  She now enjoys less strain on her arms and back as well as having her hands free to manage the other tasks at hand!  She had always thought of baby slings as something that could only be used for babies and was amazed that she would be able to use it for her toddler for years to come.

We were so amazed and happy to see that our baby carrier could have such a positive benefit for such a loving family.  Our baby slings are a baby carrier that grows with you.  Using the same baby sling you can carry your infant all the way up to toddlerhood.  It makes our product very cost effective and convenient!

We thank this mother for sharing her beautiful story with us, and would love to hear other mom’s baby sling story.

Mod Mum Baby Slings at the Oh Sweet Sadie Show

November 11, 2009

Are you looking for the best baby carrier available at the most affordable price!  Come join us at the Oh Sweet Sadie Show in South Jordon, Utah.  We are taking SoDa Row, the new retail shopping district in Daybreak by storm with beautiful patterns and great deals!   Our sizing experts will be available to help you get in the best size possible for every body type.   We would love to help you learn how to use a baby sling, and will be giving tutorials throughout the show.  Bring your baby to the show and we will show you how to wrap them in style and comfort in a beautiful baby sling.

Just because you are on a budget you don’t have to miss out on the ease and convenience of using a baby sling carrier.  We have baby slings in all price ranges making it an affordable baby sling for anyone!   Don’t miss out on our show specials, as the prices can’t be beat.

Whether you are shopping for the new mom in your life or for the Christmas gift that you really want this is the place to snatch up the best deals!

Baby Sling Giveaway!!!!!

Among loads of other great giveaways at the show, we will be giving a baby sling of your choice to one lucky winner at the show.  Come down and sign up.  Remember…. If you don’t play, you will never win!

We can’t wait to see you there!

Oh Sweet Sadie Art and Gift Show

So Da Row in Daybreak

South Jordon, UT

Wednesday, Nov 18th - Saturday, Nov 21st

9:30am - 8:00pm

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