Babywearing - what to and what not to

In my earlier blog, I spoke about benefits of babywearing to your baby. This blog I am going to talk about what to do when babywearing and most importantly what not to do. So why is this needed now? For years we have been babywearing, especially the traditional wrap way with old clothes and sarees. We did not have a book or blog to tell us how to do it. Then why need to 'learn' to baby wear now? Back in the days, we had moms, aunts, grannies, cousins to help us out. They would learn from someone else , do it themselves and teach the next set of parents. There were no strollers. You were not ‘expected’ to wear your child. There was no other option, so you had to know how to do it.

So I will be summing up few things that you have to do and not to do while babywearing.


The GOOD's:

• The higher the baby on your body, will be easier on the back.

• The closer the baby to you, it will be easier on your body.

• Babies gain head support only after few months of birth, always make sure you provide good head support to them in the carrier

• Avoid excessive chin tucking. If the baby's chin is held firmly against the chest, the oxygen supply to the baby might restrict. To make sure good supply of oxygen, make you there is space of two fingers between the chin and your chest.

• Maintaining a good snug fitting carrying. This will not only help in reducing strain on your body, but will also keep the baby from slumping.

• When you are back carrying the kid, make sure you should be able to look over your shoulder and see them.

• A baby's knees should be above his bum, and have a good seat in the carrier like a squat position.

• Also make sure the back is well supported.

The BAD's:

• Straight legs. Babies doesn’t hang in the carrier with straight legs. This would made a serious damage to their hip and back.

• Never attempt to do intense exercise while babywearing. Do not run, jump or play on a trampoline.

• Getting comfortable with the wrong way. You might have got comfortable wearing the baby in a wrong way. But as and when the weight of the baby grows, you will realise the effects on your body and you might just stop wearing instead of correcting to right method or trying a different carrier.

• Using a sling or a carrier without reading the instructions manual. Though some carriers are simple and easy to be worn take some time to read the manual and know-how. It might save you from lot of fuss and uncomfortability for you and the baby. Please do not try to find your own way of wrapping or wearing.

• And lastly, do not Fail to follow What's Good part.

I have tried Soulslings Ringlings, Anoona and Full buckle and it has been a pleasure ride for us. The instructions are so clear and the fabric is sturdy. If you are still unclear about the instructions, they also have a dedicated page on YouTube with every detail like adjustments, fits and how to be worn, packed demonstrated very well. Also, the team at Soul Family Facebook Group is prompt and happy to help. They have been my journey of babywearing smooth and I am sure it will make yours too.