Let me start by saying that this post isn’t a lecture on who will I vote for or who I think you should vote for. No, this is not the appropriate platform for that discussion, nor I am entitled to convince you to believe in my political viewpoints.
This blog post will focus more on why babywearing is a good option when voting, what are good sling options, and some tips to consider, as well when voting with a kid in tow on a sling.
Babywearing has been helping parents juggle tasks in and outside of the home–from cleaning to tending to older kids to buying groceries, and so on..Now, can babywearing still do its magic this upcoming election?
The answer is a big YES.
How can Babywearing or slings help us on election day?
1. ACCESSIBILITY
We can easily move and go about the usual voting process with a kid in a sling. Slings or baby carriers allow us to easily move from one place to another without having to worry about where to park our strollers or allow us to places where buggies can’t reach.
2. FUNCTIONALITY
You can easily write and sign papers with the help of a sling supporting your baby compared to holding them in arms.
3. PROTECTIVE
Let’s not forget that we still have COVID-19 along with other diseases that can be transmitted through touching fomites, so a baby securely placed in a sling will:
a. prevent strangers or other people from touching our babies without permission
b. will also prevent our mobile babies from holding or touching things that are laden with viruses and other harmful microorganisms.
4. BREASTFEEDING
Slings can be a good supporting tool and coverage when breastfeeding in public.
5. ROUTINE, SLEEP
Small babies and some infants have rigid sleeping schedules, so with the help of slings, babies can comfortably sleep on their mother’s or father’s chest while these parents vote.
What are great sling options for this type of activity, then?
Basically, all types of baby carriers can be a good option depending on the age of your baby, his or her current needs, and current weather conditions.
Speaking of weather, well there’s a pretty good chance that it’s going to be a sunny day..so a sling with thin or airy but equally-supportive material can be really helpful. Here are some sling options that we can find here in the Philippines at the moment:
MiniMonkey MiniSling
One-shoulder carry, that is made with a mesh fabric. It’s super airy and easy to fold and stow so it’s a good option for a small baby who needs to be close to the parent frequently and a good option for mobile kids who need quick uppies.
Nanay At Ako Ring Sling
Nanay at Ako Ring Sling prides in its soft, airy and comfortable ring sling that comes with beautiful designs and truly a presyong Pinoy.
Shadrach’s Collection Grow With Me Soft Structured Baby Carrier
The Grow With Me line of Shadrach’s collection of baby carriers is an adjustable baby carrier that is made with premium cotton, which can be used from newborn to toddler.
SaYa Baby Carrier
This proudly-pinoy made, with innovative design, is a looped dual pouch carrier made with high quality cotton fabric.
Littlefrog Adjustable BabyCarrier
This carrier is made with lightweight, 100% cotton fabric that can be used from newborn to toddler. It supports X-back support with generous padding for comfort.
Aruga Handwovens Ring Sling
Aruga Handwovens, carefully and meticuluously woven is a proud-Pinoy made sling! Its fabric has a cooling effect on the skin and equally supportive.
Ergobaby Omni360 Breeze
Lined with SoftFlex Mesh Fabric to maximizebreathability, Ergobaby Omni360 Breeze can sure bring a lot of comfort all day long!
There are still a lot of options available in the Philippine market!
What are good types of carriers to utilize when voting? Back carries may be beneficial if you have a baby with octopus arms who just can’t resist reaching your pen and or paper. For small babies, an off-centered carry or hip carry can be beneficial as it will allow you to see what you are shading or writing and, at the same time allows you to easily check your baby’s facial cues. Off-centered and hip carries are also good as it feels a bit cooler as well. Handheld fans may come in handy, too!
Let’s exercise our right of suffrage–take note that election is a great equalizer as each voter from all walks of life, rich or poor, man or woman, old or young, has one vote.
No matter who you choose to lead the country for the next 6 years, I believe that deep down in your heart, you chose that person with the best intentions and hopes for a better Philippines. I do pray that after this election, regardless of who won, we will be able to mend the divisive campaign that we experienced for the last 90 days or so.. After, we are all fighting for one thing–our love for our country.
PS: Babywearing while voting can be a good learning experience for our kids too!
Now go, prepare your sling, and your sample ballot, get your precinct number, and on May 9, 2022, get up and vote for the best person for you shame, just proud of you mama for choosing to vote.
Be empowered with your vote, be mindful of your baby’s safety and comfort, enjoy your right to vote while being a full-fledged Nanay, and of course, #babywearsmart.
Babywear Smart 