Guest Blog: Parenting a Child With EDS

I was first introduced to Tula carriers when my daughter Lucy was a baby. I met up with a friend who was babywearing with a Tula, and I was amazed at how cozy both baby and parent appeared! Not long after, I bought my own — I loved it immediately and used it constantly when Lucy was little. 

When I got pregnant with my son, I was pleasantly surprised to find the Tula was comfortable enough that I was able to continue babywearing my daughter, even as my belly grew.

Once my son Theodore was born, my love for our Tula grew. I was able to keep my infant son close and stay hands-free to chase after my on-the-go toddler. As a high-needs baby, my son spent hours every single day in the Tula being rocked, swayed and loved on. I loved that I could keep him close while still giving my daughter my attention. 

My son was diagnosed with a condition called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome as a toddler, a connective tissue disorder that causes low muscle tone, hypermobility, and joint pain. Because of his condition, Theodore loses his stamina a bit more quickly than other children his age. We recently upgraded to a Preschool Tula so I can carry him when he’s in pain or exhausted. He loves nothing more than snuggling up with his Mummy and the sense of security that comes with that. And I’m so grateful to have the option to wear him and watch as a smile spreads across his face as he gets to see the world from ‘up high’ in the Tula — an angle he doesn’t see unless he’s being worn!  

My youngest daughter Gracie was born in October 2021, and she’s as big a fan of being carried in the Tula as her big sister and brother. During Theodore’s most recent hospital stay, the Tula was invaluable — I was able to keep my baby close and rock her to sleep whilst having two free hands to help my son. 

As a busy mum to 3 small children, the Tula has been an absolute lifesaver for me. It makes our outings go more smoothly (I keep two Tulas in the car for this reason!), I get to keep my littles close, and it helps me multitask and keep all of my children safe & happy. 

Someday I will look back on this time and all of the memories I have of wearing my children, and my heart fills with gratitude that the Tula made it possible. I recommend these carriers to any parent — whether you have an infant, a toddler or a preschooler who could use a lift every now and then. You won’t regret it! 


Thank you, Carly Riddell for sharing your story. We are so happy that Tula has been beneficial to your family. 

You can follow Carly's journey on Instagram. @carlylucytheoandgracie

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