Channel 4 show 'Bringing Up Baby' has sparked controversy because of the methods of self-styled 'parenting guru' Claire Verity.  However thanks to continuum concept expert Claire Scott, more positive parenting styles are also being portrayed including carrying your baby in slings.  The show features soft stretchy wrap slings like the Moby Wrap, and ring slings similar to the EllaRoo or BaraBarn.

I haven't been able to bring myself to watch the show, but have watched with interest the debate it has provoked.  Most sane people seem to be disgusted with Claire Verity's super strict approach, which goes against our maternal instincts.  She follows the principles of Truby King, and instructs parents not to hold or cuddle their infants.

Claire Scott on the other hand is an advocate of the 'continuum concept' or 'attachment parenting' which aims to foster a strong parent-child bond, and keeps the baby close to its parents at all times.  The programme shows babies being carried in slings, breast-feeding, and sleeping with their mothers.

Personally I find it disturbing that such a show has been made at all, and I worry about the effects on the innocent and non-consenting children at the centre of it.  Ofcom has received a huge volume of complaints, and Claire Verity has been asked not to appear at the Baby Show because of concerns about her methods.

However the positive side of this is that more people are taking an interest in instinctive parenting methods, and particularly in baby slings.  I for one will be pleased to see more babies being comforted and kept close to their parents.

To read more about the benefits of carrying your baby read my article 7 Reasons, or visit the sling shop to see our range.