hope&plum Blog

A woman wears her baby in a kid Lark on her front. She looks upward and laughs while baby looks at the camera.

Ask the OT: How Do I Get My Older Baby to Want to be Worn?

If your older baby resists babywearing, stay calm, check their needs, make it fun, respect their autonomy, and focus on connection—it's a shared experience.

A black and white photo of a Sami mother in traditional clothing holding a baby swaddles in a cradleboard

Pre-Medieval to Modern: Babywearing History Across Europe

Babywearing in Europe began in ancient times, declined with strollers, persisted in rural cultures, and has since influenced modern babywearing practices today.

A smiling black woman stands in a field of yellow flowers .

Meet the Artist: Jen Hewett

Jen Hewett, a Hudson Valley artist inspired by nature and vintage design, created the spring-themed Wren print, her first connection to the babywearing world.

Black mother wearing baby in yellow sling

How to Babywear in the Summer

Stay cool while babywearing in summer: use breathable carriers, dress light, stay hydrated, seek shade, take breaks, and use fans or damp cloths to cool down.

A tied-up scrap bundle on a blue background

Sustainable Scrap Bundles: Creative Community Craft Ideas

hope&plum community members celebrate sustainability & share their creative ideas for turning scrap bundles into clothes, quilts, bags, accessories, & more.

A Ginger flat bottom bag laid flat with a knitting project, needles, and a ring sling on top.

It’s in the Bag: Community Tips for Organization on the Go

hope&plum bags keep you organized on the go! Store carriers, diapers, pumps, crafts, or work essentials in fanny packs, Lark pockets, and flat bottom bags.

Traveling with Carriers: hope&plum’s Packing Tips and Tricks

Choose carriers based on travel type, weather, and child’s age. Fold compactly, use a dedicated bag for storage, and organize with accessories for easy packing.

Ask the OT: What’s the Deal with Footie Pajamas and Babywearing?

Footie pajamas can pull tight in carriers, causing discomfort, reflex activation, and poor positioning. Size-up, opt for stretchy fabrics, or socks instead.

A line of babywearers stands in front of a store front. They all have moss bag covers over their baby carriers. The founder of Moss Bag Baby stands in front of the group smiling at the camera.

Meet Moss Bag Baby: Modern Baby Covers Inspired by Tradition

Moss Bag Baby, founded by TaNeel Filesteel, honors Native babywearing traditions with modern wool covers, blending cultural heritage, warmth, and practicality.

What is EMDR and How Can it Help New Parents’ Mental Health?

EMDR helps to process trauma, reduce stress, and manage anxiety using bilateral stimulation. It promotes healing, emotional well-being, and self-empowerment.