What is a Sling Meet?

Sling Meet was set up in 2006 by two babywearing mums as a way for parents who use (or want to use) slings and carriers to get together, learn from one another and promote babywearing (see the Babywearing page for more information). With increased publicity about babywearing in newspapers, on the television and in mainstream magazines over the last few years, more and more parents are learning about the benefits of using a sling and realising that there is more to slings that just what can be found on the high street. As a result parents are going in search of more information which has increased the popularity of Sling Meets and there are now Sling Meets all over the UK - run by parents, for parents - and more are starting all the time.

Is Sling Meet for me?

If any of the following sound familiar then this group is for you!

• you want to keep your baby close but sometimes need your hands free to be able to get on with other things
• you've decided you would like to use a sling or carrier but are confused by the different options and need some advice

• you've already got a sling or carrier but can't get a comfortable fit and/or your baby doesn't seem to like it
• your baby is too big/heavy for your high street carrier but you would like to continue to carry him/her and need another option
• you are expecting a baby and want to look into alternatives to a pram/travel system
• you regularly go places which are not pushchair friendly such as country walks or places with lots of steps
• You live in an upstairs flat or regularly use public transport and a pushchair just isn't suitable for your daily life
• You are passionate about slings and want to share your experiences and help other parents
• Your baby has reflux (GERD) or suffers with colic
• You want to get more from the carrier/sling you already own and learn some new carrying positions

• You are expecting another baby and want to avoid having to buy a double buggy
• You would like to start carrying your child on your back and need some tips
• You are worried about the safety of slings after someone told you they aren't safe
• Your baby does not like being put down and prefers to sleep on you and you can't get anything done
• You want to learn about babywearing as a parenting tool/choice

Sling Meets in Herefordshire

Hereford Sling Meet was set up informally in October 2007 and, as a few more interested parents appeared, we moved to our first proper venue and began regular monthly meets in February 2008. In May 2010 Hereford Sling Meet moved to the Widemarsh Children's Centre where the meets have gone from strength to strength. Sling Meet is free for all parents, parents-to-be and carers and aims to promote the many benefits of carrying your child, as well as offering practical help on choosing and using slings and carriers. If you are a health professional and wish to learn more about babywearing please do come along - it is useful if you contact us beforehand so we can put together some information that you can take away with you.

Everyone is welcome whether you are a sling addict, casual user or total novice. If you would like to try out some different styles and get some advice before you buy there will be lots of slings and carriers and experienced babywearers to give you a hand. We have a large range of different styles and brands suitable for babies and children of all ages from newborn up to 2-3 years old. If you already have a sling or carrier and are not getting on with it then bring it along and we will do our best to help you. We also have information sheets on what/where to buy, safety and the many benefits of babywearing.

Come along and have a cuppa and a chat, we'd love to see you!