At Izmi, we regularly hear from families whose children need support beyond the baby years. For some, it is about mobility and fatigue. For others, it is about sensory regulation, emotional connection or simply staying included in family life. Our carriers are a lifeline for children who want to explore the world but need extra help to do so safely or comfortably.

This story comes from Rachel, founder of Parent Sanctuary, carrying consultant and mum, who discovered her son Hero had a rare muscle condition when he was still a toddler. Her experience captures the heart of why many families choose to carry bigger children, and why Izmi Adventure Carriers can keep adventures possible for longer.

Rachel’s story

As a carrying consultant, learning that Hero (now 5) had a muscle-wasting condition was devastating, but it also made one thing crystal clear: the part of motherhood that keeps me steady and keeps my children curious, calm and connected is spending time in nature. I wasn’t willing to let that slip away from Hero. I already knew how versatile slings and carriers can be, and that I could keep carrying him long past infancy. He was nearly 2 when diagnosed, and I still carry him now. Each day I lift his growing weight, my own strength adapts with him.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a rare condition that gradually weakens the muscles and affects everyday life in countless ways. Children tire quickly, struggle with longer distances and often need support simply to join in with what other children do without thinking. It also has a cognitive side. Verbal delays and neurological differences, including ADHD and autism, are far more common in children with DMD. For Hero, this means he sometimes needs help regulating his emotions, staying safe when he’s impulsive, and managing overwhelming moments.

That’s why having an Adventure Carrier from Izmi has meant so much to us. Izmi genuinely considers the needs of both child and adult, and that shows in how comfortable and supportive their carrier is. The broad shoulder straps and structured waistband spread Hero’s weight beautifully, giving my body the chance to keep up with him. It allows him to rest without missing out, and it removes barriers that were beginning to shrink our world. He loves being up at our height, part of everything, not limited by what his muscles can manage that day.

The carrier isn’t just about mobility for us. It’s also one of my most valuable parenting tools, helping him stay regulated, soothed and safe when his emotions or impulses run high. It keeps him included, which matters deeply to him and to us as a family.

Through my work with Parent Sanctuary, I’m able to bring this experience into my support for other families. I work with parents in Huddersfield and Barnsley, including those who have children with disabilities, to help them feel confident and supported in carrying. For many families, a well-fitted carrier opens up the outdoors, reduces stress and makes everyday life more accessible, and I’m proud to help make that happen.

Why stories like Rachel’s matter

Families of bigger children, neurodivergent children or children with long-term health conditions often tell us they feel overlooked by traditional babywearing advice. Yet carrying can continue to play a vital role in daily life: keeping children included, supporting co-regulation, making outdoor adventures manageable and providing a safe, familiar space when overwhelm strikes.

The Izmi Adventure Carrier was designed with exactly these families in mind. Lightweight but supportive, compact but sturdy enough for bigger kids. A tool to help you go further, not faster. A way to share the world side by side, even when mobility, fatigue or sensory needs make things more complicated.

We are honoured to share Rachel and Hero’s story, and we hope it helps other families see what is possible.

If you’d like guidance on carrying an older child, choosing the right carrier for your child’s specific needs or finding support local to you, the expert Izmi team is always here to help.

Just Giving link for Hero’s Fight Against DMD 
Read more about Parent Sanctuary, supporting families in Yorkshire to access nature and build connections.