Moray group promotes 'wearing' babies with offer to new parents

A MORAY mother and baby group is offering free baby equipment trials to new members.

Moray Sling Library launched the initiative on Friday morning, February 7, at Elgin's Williamson Hall, to expand on Scotland's Baby Box scheme and grow its membership.

The group offers help and advice on baby slings and hires out different styles for new parents to try out. It promotes "wearing babies" in the carriers as the best way of getting around unhindered and for closer bonding.

Co-leader Catherine McKelvie said: "Slings are great for mother and baby, allowing for hands-free hugs and helping to strengthen the bond.

"They offer so much more freedom – like walks without the restriction of a pram – and mums can exercise more easily. Also the oxytocin released by being in close contact helps nurture the attachment and reduces anxiety.

"Mums can do so much more – and more easily."

Moray SNP MSP Richard Lochhead popped in on Saturday to learn more about the group's work. He modelled the wrap sling issued to newborns in every Baby Box provided by the Scottish Government. The scheme was introduced in August 2017.

Mr Lochhead said: "It’s a long time since my boys were born, so it was great to meet Catherine and Milli from Moray Sling Library to find out more about their good work and to learn how to put on a sling – I think I did okay for a first attempt.

"The sling I had on is the one provided in the Scottish Government’s Baby Box, which aims to make sure that every child, regardless of their circumstances, gets the best start in life. It was great to meet with some new parents and to hear first-hand just how much they valued the Baby Box.

"I was really pleased to hear about the benefits of the sling library for parents who are able to pop along to a session to learn about the benefits of using a sling and to learn more about how to use them, as well as being able to hire or try out different slings."

Moray Sling Library is offering free three-month loans of stretchy baby slings to new members. Annual membership costs £10 and monthly hire normally costs £10 per month.

Members hold Sling Meets on the first Friday of each month. The group is run by four volunteer mums who have undergone accredited Babywearing Consultancy training.

For more information see Moray Sling Library on Facebook or contact Miss McKelvie on 07393 362150.

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