The new term is "Babywearing" and everyone is doing it - carrying their baby with them everywhere they go. It's a great way to increase mother/child bonding and what better way to always keep your eyes on that little cherub no matter what you're doing? If you want to join the ranks of Babywearing mothers though, you'll need to take some precautions. Here are 6 baby carrier safety tips to keep the little one safe and snug.
Choose the right carrier for baby - Choose a baby sling that's appropriate for your child's age, weight and height. Some baby carriers are only recommended for certain ages or may require an insert for newborn infants to help support their head. Use a carrier that's too small and it won't offer enough support for you or the baby. Use one that's too large and the baby may slip out.
Choose the right carrier for you - A lot of manufacturers make carriers in different sizes to accommodate your body as well as the baby's. Generally you can choose a sling or carrier made for your size by measuring from your shoulder, across your body, to the middle of the side of your waist. Some manufacturers use different measurements though, so be sure to check before purchasing. Look for carriers that are adjustable but secure.
Position baby correctly - It's important to position you baby in such a way that you can always easily see and check on them. But it's even more important to remember to always have your baby in a position in which their face is not covered by the sling. You should also position your baby so his chin is not resting on his chest. This position makes it difficult for some infants to breathe.
Wearing the sling - The baby should always be held snug against your body and high enough that you can bend down to kiss his little head. As your baby grows you'll be adjusting the baby carrier. This position keeps the baby secure but also helps protects your back.
Be aware of your size - Be careful to make allowances for your adjusted size when you're carrying your baby. You don't want to be bumping through doorways or running into cabinets or open drawers. Always make sure to allow additional space around you and your baby.
Be aware of the baby - Don't lean over a hot stove when you're babywearing. Be careful when drinking hot coffee or tea. Don't handle knives or other sharp objects. Don't lean out a window or over the stairs. The list could go on and on. Once you get used to carrying your baby you might not be as cautious as you were in the beginning. But it only takes a split second for your baby to reach up and grab at that knife. It only takes one little bump from his elbow to make you spill that hot coffee. Always be aware of what you AND your baby are doing while you're using a baby carrier of any type.
Choose the right carrier for baby - Choose a baby sling that's appropriate for your child's age, weight and height. Some baby carriers are only recommended for certain ages or may require an insert for newborn infants to help support their head. Use a carrier that's too small and it won't offer enough support for you or the baby. Use one that's too large and the baby may slip out.
Choose the right carrier for you - A lot of manufacturers make carriers in different sizes to accommodate your body as well as the baby's. Generally you can choose a sling or carrier made for your size by measuring from your shoulder, across your body, to the middle of the side of your waist. Some manufacturers use different measurements though, so be sure to check before purchasing. Look for carriers that are adjustable but secure.
Position baby correctly - It's important to position you baby in such a way that you can always easily see and check on them. But it's even more important to remember to always have your baby in a position in which their face is not covered by the sling. You should also position your baby so his chin is not resting on his chest. This position makes it difficult for some infants to breathe.
Wearing the sling - The baby should always be held snug against your body and high enough that you can bend down to kiss his little head. As your baby grows you'll be adjusting the baby carrier. This position keeps the baby secure but also helps protects your back.
Be aware of your size - Be careful to make allowances for your adjusted size when you're carrying your baby. You don't want to be bumping through doorways or running into cabinets or open drawers. Always make sure to allow additional space around you and your baby.
Be aware of the baby - Don't lean over a hot stove when you're babywearing. Be careful when drinking hot coffee or tea. Don't handle knives or other sharp objects. Don't lean out a window or over the stairs. The list could go on and on. Once you get used to carrying your baby you might not be as cautious as you were in the beginning. But it only takes a split second for your baby to reach up and grab at that knife. It only takes one little bump from his elbow to make you spill that hot coffee. Always be aware of what you AND your baby are doing while you're using a baby carrier of any type.
