Excerpt from Natural Baby and Childcare

The Sling
My preference for carrying a baby is a sling, used by families for centuries, which allows baby to be held in many different positions (worn front or back of the parent, and baby can be facing out or in) and makes it easy to take her in and out with minimal disturbance, especially if sleeping. The baby is comfortably confined in a horizontal or inclined position, and as she matures (around five months), will be ready to begin sitting up in the sling, preferably in a cross-legged position, which helps disperse the weight throughout the legs. The sling can be used up to toddler age.

For infants, the sling is recommended for its versatility and ability to accommodate your infant in a position that is natural for her . Babies who are carried are more involved in the family life, as they are right there in the middle of all the action. Carrying a baby also promotes breastfeeding and bonding.

Just be careful when wearing your baby in a sling. Try to avoid walking through narrow places. Do not drink hot beverages when wearing your baby.

The Backpack
From the time our babies were older and sitting up, we ventured out on hikes with them in tow in the backpack. I even used it around the house, as I found it a comfortable way to keep my sons close while I did other things. The backpack, constructed with a metal frame for support, is different than an infant carrier. Before you use it, your baby needs to have adequate head control and should be able to sit up unsupported. Typically, you can begin using a backpack when your baby is approximately six months old and can continue until she is about four years old (or when she is around 40-45 lbs). Our backpack lasted through both of our children. Limitations to the backpack include a lack of eye contact with your child and the fact that your child will only be able to sit in one position.

Backpacks come in all shapes, sizes, and prices, and many can accommodate different toddler weights.

Be sure to try it on for comfort before you buy one, if possible with your child in it. My husband is nearly a foot taller than I, but we managed to find a frame that was equally comfortable for both of us.

I preferred one with padded straps at the shoulder and waist.