Parenting Pointers: Choosing a Baby Carrier

How to Choose a Baby Carrier for Babywearing

When it comes to babywearing the benefits are many. The babies are happier and well adjusted. The parents can get things done and feel more connected to their children and overall it is a historic practice that offers many lifelong benefits. However many new parents have trouble figuring out what size and style of baby carrier they should use to babywear. Here are some helpful suggestions:

1. Make sure it fits – Your first step when choosing a baby carrier is to make sure it is size appropriate. There are many carrier styles out there that are suitable for newborns and others that are better for older children. Newborns especially need to have proper carriers that support their heads and make sure they can breathe easily. They should also be worn in the front so that they can be watched carefully. Many newborn suitable carriers also offer easy breastfeeding positions. For older children there are models that sit on the hip or on the back to reduce muscle strain and help distribute the weight evenly. There are easy to transport models for light use or more heavy duty models for long term use.
2. Find a style you like – After you find a carrier that fits your child’s weight and age, you need to then fins a style that fits with your needs. Back carriers are great for those on the go. If you garden, clean up or cook then those are a good idea. However if you sit more than stand, a front model might be more appropriate. Some carriers fit different body styles and strengths. While mom might be more comfortable with one that sits the baby on her hip, dad might like one that pulls more from the arms and shoulders. It is all up to your body shape and your needs.
3. Get some advice – When it comes to babywearing, knowledgeable parents are your best friends. Online there are many resources where you can compare different styles of carriers, get advice on use and transportation, and find out ways to make it easier on you and baby to get started.
4. Grow with your child – You will probably have to invest in a different carrier as your child grows. What words for a newborn will not fit an older baby and vice versa. Since most carriers are very affordable it is easy to make the transition without problems.
5. Have a to go model – When you are on the go, like a trip to the grocery store or doctor, you need something that is small and portable. That is where investing in a on the go carrier model is important. Most cloth only carriers are easy to store in a diaper bag and once you learn how to use them are easy to put on and get going. Although they do not offer as much support, they are more than adequate for short term use.
6. Make sure it breathes – Try to avoid synthetic fabrics when it comes to the baby carrier. Natural fabrics like cotton, linin, and silk breathe better and allow you and your baby to be more comfortable. There are especially woven fabrics just for use as baby carriers and padded or ringed models that can be adapted for almost any size of child. Make sure your child is properly clothed for the environment. Provide shade in summer and warm clothes in winter, especially to a back worn child.
7. Practice – When you first try out babywearing it may seem a bit hard to get used to. Practice before you actually start by using stuffed animals or dolls in place of the baby. You can get used to the weight and the movements necessary to keep baby safe and happy while giving yourself the mobility you need. You should also practice sitting on the floor at first before you stand and get moving with the baby. This should be done before using any new carrier or cloth style to assure that the baby is safe and secure.
8. Be safe – Speaking of safety, there are a few issues to watch out for when practicing baby wearing.

1. Do not use a baby carrier in the car. Babies should be in car seats that offer appropriate protection.
2. Do not run, jump or bounce with the baby. This can cause shaken baby syndrome or even death.
3. Make sure the baby can breathe. The head needs to be supported. When babies, especially newborns, have their head falling forward it restricts their breathing. Any cloth or clothing should not impede their mouths or noses either.
4. Do not put stuffed animals or toys in the carrier with the baby.
5. Inspect the carrier regularly for rips, tears, or frays.
6. Check on the baby frequently. If the baby is back worn, have another person check on the baby or look in a mirror to assure that the baby is safe and sound.
7. Do not participate in dangerous activities while wearing the baby. This includes climbing ladders, riding a bike, etc.
8. Do not do things that require protective gear, i.e. mowing the lawn or construction.
9. Dress the baby for the environment. Provide shade in summer and warm clothes in winter. Make sure the clothes do not impede the breathing.
10. Be aware of baby’s reach. Especially when wearing baby on the back, they can reach many things you can’t see. Stay a safe distance away from any objects.
11. Be aware of your size. Speaking of keeping away from objects; be careful in tight quarters and going through doorways. You do not want to hit the baby on the door frame or cabinet.
12. Only adults should babywear.
13. Watch out for chemicals and burns. Cleaning and cooking are dangerous activities when babywearing.

While there are some safety issues included in babywearing, overall it is a great way to bond with your child and make sure that they are safe and well at all times. Studies have shown that babies who participate in this kind of bonding are more social and well balanced as adults and teens. The connections you form with your child now will last a lifetime.

Author Bio:

Amanda Carlson, a blogger as well as a former newborn care nurse contributed this post. To stay connected to her previous career and share the knowledge she gained, she began writing for www.newborncare.com. You can reach her at amanda.newborncare @ gmail.com.