I’m Liking:
How this product managed to partially change my opinion of it. I have never been a Baby Bjorn fan, the baby always hung off my shoulders, but the Active (and others in the range) have a lower back support that really makes a difference to the wearer. The weight of the baby is evenly distributed. I like how easy it is to put on. I like the colours and fabrics. It is easy to adjust to fit both wearer and baby. It doesn’t rub anywhere and is very comfortable.
Things that make me go hmmm:
As ever when there is a sling that has so little fabric at the base where the baby sits, there is the issue of a baby sitting/suspended on their tailbone… This is a big deal for growing and developing little bodies and bones. It is quite pricey ($240+) for the length of time it can be used (a few short months 4 or so, in my opinion).
Extra for experts:
I would only recommend using this sling until your baby’s legs are no longer splayed like frogs, that is, knees above or equal to the hips. Once they are hanging, it is time to hang this sling up. I have seen time and time again 7, 8 or 9 month old baby’s in a Baby Bjorn just suspended on the crotch – surely it makes sense that this is not comfy, particularly for little boys. The design of this sling allows for the wearer to be comfortable longer than they might ordinarily be able to wear a baby in this position. I also often see those babies facing outwards arching their backs into the wearer for comfort and support because facing forwards is a little scary (think theme park ride without being able to hold on – not all babies will complain, but just because they don’t make a noise doesn’t mean they are enjoying it)
The conclusion:
I would recommend this sling from the start with a decent size baby (the recommendation is 3.5kg), when your baby is a good weight they can fit snugly in it. I would say generally in the early days it is perfect for a quick and easy choice when out and about. I would hesitate to recommend it as the only baby carrier you purchase, and at the price, I would probably suggest another sling over this one.
About the Baby Bjorn Active
The Active Carrier is a sturdy baby carrier, designed to carry heavier children for longer. The comfortable lumbar support and the wide, padded shoulder straps provides an even weight distribution. The baby carrier provides excellent support for your little child’s back and head, making sure his/her legs and arms are in a physiologically correct position. When your child is a little older, the neck-rest can be folded down so the child can face forwards and look around. Suitable from newborn (at least 3.5 kgs/8 lbs and 53 cms/21 ins) up to 12 kgs/26 lbs.
The Baby Bjorn Active costs $240 – $270
(Information provided by Baby Bjorn)
