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Babywearing International has set the "ABCs" standard of babywearing best practices. Let's review each point quickly here. For more information and printable graphics, check out the resources at babywearinginternational.org.
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ABCs: Safety basics.
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A: AirwayMake sure baby's airway is open at all times. At no time should the carrier physically obstruct the baby's airway. The caregiver should be able to monitor baby's breathing at all times.
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B: Body Positioning
Baby's body should be supported in a way that is developmentally appropriate (newborns have a supported C-curve to the spine, older babies require less head/neck and upper trunk support, etc) and ergonomic.
narrow-based fine for short-term and will not cause hip d. Long-term most will not find it as comfortable, however again no known long-term side effects. FFO with adequate head control, monitor airway, best practice is to not allow sleeping (turn baby around to face in)... More information about babywearing ergonomics from the Hip Dysplasia Institute. |
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C: Comfort
Your carrier should feel comfortable for you and baby! If it is not, stop and adjust. Reach out for support if needed so that you and your baby can have a successful babywearing experience!
Baby's comfort - again narrow-based may not be as comfortable... experiment with what is best for you and your baby... |
Additional Resources not listed above: (also listed on the Resources pages)
- The TICKS rule of babywearing also covers the same basic info in a different acronym - http://www.schoolofbabywearing.com/Images/TICKS.pdf
- The Baby Carrier Industry Alliance (BCIA) gives us additional information on carrier safety - http://babycarrierindustryalliance.org/babywearing-safety/consumers/
Need something that isn't listed? Let me know and I'll send it to you and probably add it here too! Contact me at [email protected].
