Siberian mummies, and even a slingshot, tell how to work, travel, have time to shop and even dance with the kids. The secret is in the sling!
Irina Astankova
Photo: personal archiveAbout me.My name is Irina, and I used to be a ballet dancer at the Musical Theatre. My hobby, passion and life is dancing. And when our son Artem was born (he is now 3 years old), I wanted to continue doing what I loved even during my maternity leave. It turned out that in our city there is a wonderful studio called Slingoledi, where mothers dance with their babies in slings, mei tais and ergo backpacks. For two years now, I have been a trainer at this studio, which opened the wonderful world of sling-wearing for me and my son. Why a sling? The ergo backpack became our assistant for a long time, we used it actively in winter too – we happily walked around in a backpack and sling jacket. In fact, an ergo is a miracle invention for a mother, especially in the city, where it is very difficult to walk with a stroller - you need to somehow get on the bus, overcome all the bumps, holes and steps on the street, and you can’t go into stores with a stroller everywhere. But in an ergo backpack there are no obstacles - put the child in and go! Wherever, in any weather. A sling or a stroller? For doubting mothers facing a choice, I can say that both devices are needed to figure out how you and your child will be comfortable. But from my own perspective, I can say that there is no better feeling than the top of your own head at a kissing distance…Photo: personal archivePhoto: personal archiveGoogle for Irina on page 12!