This piece is just a summary of what usually takes place during my consults.
Note that carrying consultations may vary from one consultant to the other.
My carrying consults usually start with a pre-consult interview wherein the client would share her needs and wants with her babywearing feat. Usually this happens via messaging. It helps me prepare for the consult, and sort of pre-match some well-fitting slings for the client if the client is new to babywearing and wants to figure out what suits best. However if fitchecking and troubleshooting seems to be the problem..then that’s for another blogpost, haha! After that, we would set-up and agree for the schedule and decide for a location or online platform depending on the convenience of both parties.
If the client wishes to have it in-person or house-call, then i’d bring sling samples. (Usually I bring them all, but i only show 5 most well-fitting, the rest are inside the bag).
As soon as we meet, before we dive into the carriers, I start by introducing myself (if we just met for the first time) and then ask the client about her current state, how she’s finding her life as a mother, etc. This is to do some quick check on her postnatal maternal mental state (if the client is a mother) or postnatal mental state (for fathers). After that, I start educating about sling safety, the importance of airway in babywearing, discuss tips on how to maximize babywearing feats and more. I usually bring my tablet or laptop with me for visuals. Then I would discuss the different slings—the pros and cons for each and how it matches with the client.
After that, I will show my recommendations and let the client decide the type of carrier they want to try. I usually let them choose their top 3. after that, I will show her how the carrier is being worn. I will also let the client try on the carrier and help her find comfort for each carrier. I encourage them to use a doll first when trying out a carrier to avoid stressing their baby. Sometimes, client would air some concerns so I also answer these after my short lecture.
When the client finally chooses her desired carrier, I will let them try it again but this time with their baby. After that, I would help them direct to the stores where she or he could find their chosen carrier.
Consultation usually lasts for about 90-120minutes.
PS: I am also a Certified Mental Health First Responder and part of the Postpartum Heroes, which is why protecting the mental health of my clients is also part of my carrying consultation.
Consultation fee depends on the client’s convenience (where are we going to conduct the consultation-meet-up or house-call) and current needs (fee is different in special cases because there is a need for longer pre-consultation preparation).
Always keep in mind that it is a lot cheaper to book for a consult than buying a not well-fitting carrier for you and your baby. It is a safe choice to seek help from a professional because we are trained to help you in this feat. And that nothing beats a unique approach and in-person, one-on-one consultation than just googling articles and watching videos. You can never put a price on your safety and comfort. You safety and comfort matters. You matter. Your baby matters.
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