How I carry on my baby boy
Embarking on your baby-wearing journey brings a sense of excitement and discovery. As you delve into the world of woven wraps, a few fundamental rules for tying them await your attention. These rules are like guiding stars, ensuring that your binding is not just correct, but also safe. So, what's essential to remember when you're eager to securely and snugly wrap your baby in a sling?
Among the myriad guidelines for babywearing, today we'll explore what we consider to be the top 5. These are the core principles that frame the art of wrapping your little one in a cozy cocoon.
We nestle the baby in the sling in a vertical stance, thoughtfully positioning them for spinal comfort and optimal hip joint stimulation-essentials for their developmental journey (it's the classic flexion and abduction pose we're talking about!).
But here's the truth: slipping your precious one into the sling isn't the whole story. Like any skill, mastering the art of baby slings takes practice. This is where the magic of learning from a babywearing advisor—a seasoned pro in this delightful realm—comes into play.
A baby in a sling snuggles chest to chest—it's the golden rule. The baby's tummy finds solace against the caregiver's body—whether nestled on the chest, resting on the back, or nestled upon the hip.
Imagine the sling as a gentle embrace—a well-fitted bandage—keeping your baby close and cozy. We shun the notion of a loosely tied sling that falls short of providing the support needed for those tender bones and joints.
In a masterfully tied sling, your baby's spine finds its cover along its full length, while its little head and feet venture beyond the fabric's confines. For the little ones who haven't yet mastered head control, the sling stretches up to the midpoint of their tiny ears.
Now, an inquiry might have crossed your mind: Is it safe to carry a newborn in an upright position? You might have caught wind of the cautionary note against carrying babies unable to sit up by themselves in an upright stance—a concern for their tender spines.
When a baby arrives, their spine hasn't yet evolved to mirror our adult mobility. Those first months of life witness the curvature of their spine transforming into that S-shaped marvel, preparing them for our vertical world.
However, this doesn't bar us from cradling our baby in an upright position. The key? Ensuring a snug, supportive sling, that maintains their naturally curved posture throughout. Carrying them vertically isn't akin to making them stand prematurely. It's about crafting a safe haven—a cradle of comfort—for your little one's journey of growth.
