Most people have a sling or carrier for their baby. It makes perfect sense with a small non-mobile baby, but a carrier is also very handy for a toddler too.

There's lots of reasons you might like to buy a toddler carrier, or keep using your baby carrier if it's a type you can use with a toddler.

Benefits for mom - It's great exercise. Carrying a 30lb toddler is a real workout!

Sometimes it's the only way to get out of the house. Here in the midwest, we've just had our typical several-inch snowfall. I can't push a stroller becasue the sidewalks are covered in snow, and I don't like to drive in this weather. My son loves to go out walking but little legs get tired quickly. We've been walking when we go out, and I'm carrying him home.

Benefits for toddler - just like a baby, it's soothing for a toddler to ride in a carrier. If your toddler is tired, fussy or They love the motion and being close to mom. And often a toddler will fall asleep in a carrier, just lie a newborn.

Here are some carriers that work well for toddlers.

Mei Tai, or Asian Baby Carriers

These carriers are an oblong of fabric, with long straps to tie your toddler onto your body. They can be brought for as little as $25 and fold up compactly for a diaper bag. Mine fits in my coat pocket.

You can wear a toddler in a Mei Tai on your back, facing inwards on your front (cuddle carry) or hip carry. The back or hip carries are great for walking or hiking, and the cuddle carry is ideal for going home after a busy day, your toddler can nap comfortably. Pick one with padded straps for the most comfort when wearing.

Moby Wraps

These are a really long, wide peice of fabric that you tie around your body to become straps and pouches to support your toddler. The width of the fabric in the straps makes them more comfortable to wear than a Mei Tai. They have a learning curve but once you've mastered tying it, you can carry your toddler in several different ways, including the front, back and cuddle carry. Moby Wraps cost around $35.

Soft Structured Carriers

Generally more expensive that the Mei Tai or Moby carriers, they are also easier to use. They come with straps you adjust to your body and once you've done that, you can just slip them on and go. They can usually be used in front, back and cuddle carries. Popular brands include the Ergo carrier, about $90.

Backpack Carriers

These carriers have a metal frame and are worn on your back. They are very comfortable to wear for hiking or walking, but the carrier has a significant weight and can be hard to put on solo. Dads usually like this kind of carrier but many moms use them too. Some toddlers love being up high in a backpack carrier, some hate the precarious feeling so this is definatly one to try out in the store before you buy. They are bulky, and not as portable as other carriers. Cheap versions start at around $50, better quality ones from around $80.