By Carleen Wild
Moody County Enterprise
With no shortage of baby carriers lining store shelves — from front carriers and wraps to hip seats and every variation in between — young families today have options at their fingertips.
But for some local parents, there is another option. One rooted not in trend, but in tradition.
A cradleboard workshop scheduled for March 9–12 will offer participants the chance to create a carrier that carries cultural significance. A $50 deposit, payable to Marilyn Allen, secures a spot and is refundable upon completion.
For Gayle Teeman, cradleboards are personal.
“A labor of love, and a connection to my culture and way of life,” she said.
“I remember when I was pregnant with my daughter, I was overwhelmed with how many options there were for different carriers. When my husband surprised me and told me he wanted to make one for our daughter, I was super excited that my children were able to have them because I didn’t get to experience that or have one of my own.”
Teeman said she began reconnecting with her culture in middle school, navigating what she describes as a generational trauma and gap in cultural knowledge. When she became pregnant, her perspective shifted.
“I never asked questions about cradleboards prior because I had never planned on being a mother, but after finding out I was pregnant my mindset changed completely. I knew I wanted to raise my children to know who and where they come from,” she said.
She describes cradleboards as meeting both physical and emotional needs.
“From my own personal beliefs, cradleboards almost mimic everything a baby needs. Security, warmth, safety,” she said. “Almost as if they’re safe and cozy in the womb again.”
Teeman said cradleboards allow mothers to move about daily life while keeping baby close and secure — much like modern carriers — while also promoting posture and, in her experience, even easing postpartum anxiety.
“I’m such a strong believer in bringing back our ways in all aspects but especially when it comes to parenting,” she said.
“When our children are loved, they will grow up to then pass that love and compassion on to the next generation.”
She credits Marilyn Allen and Maria Patterson for helping bring the workshop to the community and for passing along knowledge. Traditionally, she noted, the first cradleboard made is often given away.
“I hope that they can see the bigger picture. Cradleboards are a labor of love,” she said.
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