Every area of the world has used babywearing as a means of transporting baby at some point, and obviously, as with everything, different countries have their own way of doing it. Each is designed for the maximum comfort of both baby and carrier in the circumstances in which it is to be used.
Mexico - Rebozo – a square of cloth, which ties over one shoulder and carries baby on the back.
Peru – Manta – similar to a Rebozo, but ties around both shoulders like a cape.
Guatemala – Parraje- similar to a Rebozo.
Alaska/Canada – Amauti – a thick coat with a pocket for baby in the back, designed for maximum warmth and to protect baby from the cold arctic elements.
Papa New Guinea – Bilum – a net bag, which is carried against the back, and held at the forehead.
Asia – Mei Tai, Onbuhimo, Podaegi, Hmong, Bei – variations on a theme, most consist of a panel of fabric with either two or four straps, which are wrapped around the person carrying and tied.
Europe – wrap, pouch, ring sling – a wrap is a long piece of fabric wrapped around the baby and carer and tied in position. A pouch and ring sling are used in much the same way, usually to hold baby in a hammock position.
Indonesia – Selendang - long ornate wrap.
Africa – Khanga - piece of cloth tied around the torso, so baby sits low on the back.
Wales – Siol Fagu – warm nursing shawls, used to wrap baby close to the mother’s hip.
If you know of any we have missed, please do let us know in the comments section below.
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