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This post is by contributor Sarah!
As my baby has grown, she has become more curious and fidgety while nursing and other times when she is in my arms. To keep those busy, investigating hands from pinching my skin, pulling my hair, and inspecting my teeth and gums, I decided to make this simple beaded necklace.
Materials to Make this DIY Nursing Necklace:
All you need are some chunky beads and a wide ribbon. I chose to bead on a wide ribbon versus a string or cord so that if the necklace was pulled, it would not chafe my neck. I have used medium-sized wooden beads, but you could use larger ones. You might even use the big beads sold as bead lacing kits for toddlers. That way your nursing necklace can be reused as your baby gets older.
How to Make Your Own Nursing Necklace
I cut my ribbon so that it would hang about where my daughter’s hands reach when I am nursing or holding her. I did not want it too short, because that might hurt my neck. I didn’t want it so long that the baby would get tangled, either.
Then I strung just a few beads in the center and knotted the ribbon on each side. I wanted to give a little more sensory interest to the texture and shape of the necklace. The knots are completely optional; you can decide what will be more interesting to your little one. Then I beaded a few more on each side. I tied the ribbon to close it off. You might choose to bead all the way up, again it is up to you!
The necklace was a big hit immediately. When I am holding my little girl, she likes to look at the beads and roll them around in her fingers, which keeps a hand busy and prevents her from accidentally pulling my hair. When nursing, it gives her something to hold onto and move around rather than poking and pinching. I love that this simple craft has helped me have a more comfortable experience as I nurse and hold an older infant, while still providing some sensory stimulation for her growing brain!
About the Author:
Sarah Benton Feitlinger, M.Ed. is a former Preschool-6th science teacher, mom, blogger and science curriculum developer. She is passionate about educating children, and loves anything and everything science! Check out her blog Share it! Science for fun science activities, lessons, science news, book and learning product reviews, and other resources for kids, teachers, homeschoolers and parents.
Janet says
Why have I never thought of this idea before? I’m sure my sister-in-law will appreciate this one a lot!