Children copy the behavior of those around them. It’s one way that they learn. When wearing is part of their lives, it becomes part of their play as well. There are many carrier companies that make doll carriers in the form of buckle carriers, meh dais/bei dais, ring slings, etc. If you are particularly drawn to a specific carrier, some companies make ones for children that look just like the bigger (weight-bearing) carriers!
Another option is to use adult-sized scarves as doll wraps. Keep in mind that doll slings are not meant to be weight-bearing.
Some times older siblings get jealous of younger siblings “taking their spot.” Some times these situations happen even after months of not-wearing. Offering a carrier those children can use to wear their beloved dolls and stuffed animals in can give them a sense of importance and responsibility too. They get some hugs in, in a different but still meaningful way. Doll carriers can make great gifts year round. They’re also a great gift to remind an older sibling that this is an important time for them too at celebrations for their coming sibling.
Our Babywearing Twin Cities lending library now has a “Little Wearers Library.” Little Wearers carriers are for any child who ever wanted to imitate their caregiver, or just to keep their baby doll (or horse or block of cheese) close while keeping their hands free for playing or eating a cookie. They fit children from tiny toddlers to elementary age. Any members child is able to check one out, just like any other carrier, and in addition to the regular two carriers per member. Currently the Little Wearers library has ten soft structures buckle carriers and a stretchy wrap, with ring slings, pouch slings, meh dais, and possibly onbuhimos coming.
Additional Resources
“Doll Sling Tutorial” by Sleeping Baby Productions
***
If you have any questions about babywearing, we encourage you to contact us and/or come learn in person at one of our meetings! Check out our Instagram @Babywearing.Twin.Cities and our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/BabywearingTwinCities/).
Images have image descriptions in the alternative text accessible to those who use screen readers.