How to Use a Maya Wrap

A maya wrap is a kind of carrier or sling used for carrying small babies and toddlers. The use of a maya wrap helps parents have their baby close to them and still have their hands free to do what they need to around the house. It is also convenient to use when you're out with your children.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Purchase a maya wrap. You can find them at most stores that carry baby supplies. You can also find them online at sites such as theslingstation.com.

2. Put one arm through the maya wrap and place it on your shoulder. This puts the wrap in the traditional position for carrying a child.

3. Place your child in the sling. If your child is a newborn, he should lay in the sling like you would in a hammock. This closely imitates how he was positioned in the womb.

4. Once you have your child in the sling pull on the extra fabric, which is called the tail, to cinch the sling and the baby closer to your body. If your child is old enough to sit on its own, you can carry him on your hip with his legs around you. You can even carry him on your back. This ability to adjust the maya wrap sets it apart from other slings.

5. Go about your daily routine with your baby snug and safe against your body.

Tips & Warnings

• Maya wraps also provide a level of privacy when a mother needs to nurse in a public place. Leave the baby in the sling and use the tail to cover yourself and the baby.
• You can use a maya wrap until your child is 35 pounds.
• When your child gets too heavy to carry on your body, you can use the sling as a type of harness. Just wrap it around his waist.
• No need to purchase more than one maya wrap. The ability to adjust it makes it possible to use just one for everyone in the family
• Don't let go of your child until you have tightened the sling.

Resources

• Online sling store