Spotlight on a Slingababy Consultant: Rachel Coy
Can you give us a quick introduction as to who you are?
I’ve been carrying for 11 years after I discovered the dog wanted to go places the “all terrain” buggy didn’t. I’ve been running sling library for almost 10 years and consultant for 9. I’m I am a mummy of two. When not running library, I am a secondary maths teacher specialising in nurture provision. I run the North East Sling library from my home in Durham city but provide postal hire across the country and video consultations
Can you tell us more about your journey from carrying to becoming a consultant to now?
I started carrying with a variety of mainstream carriers that we were given by friends. When Henry was 4 months old, the infantino sling rider recall occurred. We had a different brand but couldn’t understand why it would be safe if slingrider wasn’t. So I set about trying to find solutions. I came across the babywearer and natural mamas and very quickly fell in love. I started with a meh dai but moved onto buckles (my favourite being connecta – we even have an exclusive range called Isaac’s Dogs and Henry’s Hogs) and eventually wraps.
There was no in person support anywhere near me when I started so without online forums I wouldn’t have known what to do. It was this lack of support which saw me launch the sling library. We have grown from 23 slings to 300+ in the almost 10 years we have run.
I started library in July 2011 and completed my first consultancy course in March 2012. I have then gone on to train with all uk based trainers and Jpmbb. For a while, before returning to full time teaching, I also taught peer support courses.
What is your favourite part about being a consultant?
The lightbulb moment parents get when they realise something they had discounted because it looked complicated is actually the perfect fit. It is their trust in me to select what I think will be the right fit that means the most.
Would you share a special memory that sticks out for you?
I went to do a home visit consult with a first time American mum. It was thanksgiving and she invited me to thanksgiving dinner.
The other, supporting a disabled mum carry her 3 year old so she could take her to nursery. I have then gone on to help her with her two other children.
What tip would you give yourself if you could get back to the time before you were a parent?
Trust yourself. Firstly, you are in charge of your destiny. Secondly, when you are a parent that you know your baby better than anyone else.
Why did you choose to train with Slingababy?
Lorette’s enthusiasm and understanding. Her patient style and willingness to not just stick with the “normal”
That and she got me to concur my nemesis is carry – the robyns hip carry.
The opportunity to repeat days if necessary too
Do you want to say a few words about your Slingababy experience?
Life changing!
How can people get hold of you?
Rachel@northeastslinglibrary.co.uk
Facebook page www.Facebook.com/northeastslings or phone 07989242664
Rachel Coy carrying a demo doll on her front
Rachel Coy carrying her son in a woven wrap on her front
Rachel Coy carrying her son on the front in a buckle carrier. They are kissing each other