A guide to babywearing

Carrying species

Carrying babies is nothing new. As a species we have been carrying since the beginning of humankind. Unlike other animals who are independent and start walking, swimming or flying from birth, human babies are born vulnerable. They are dependent on their caregivers for survival - to keep them warm, nourished and safe.

There are communities around the world where their carrying culture has remained unbroken, but in the UK, we lost this practice during the Victorian era as parenting styles changed and the pram was invented. In the past, caregiving and carrying would have been shared throughout the community. As “babywearing” grows in popularity in the West, there is a gap in knowledge. Parents can seek information and support from Sling Libraries and Babywearing Consultants who are trained and insured to carry out this work. We will support you to carry your baby safely, comfortably and with confidence. Why babywear?

Holding babies is the biological norm. We do this whether it’s in-arms or using a carrier, only the carrier also allows us to also be hands free to make a cup of tea! In the womb our babies know darkness, warmth and soft boundaries. They are never hungry and fall asleep to our gentle movements and heartbeat. In comparison, the outside can feel cold, bright, spacious and loud. Carrying can help bridge the transition between these two worlds. Babywearing releases oxytocin and helps you to bond and build secure attachments. Babies that are carried cry less and often sleep better. Kangaroo skin-to-skin care is particularly special. It helps regulate breathing, temperature and heart rates, so babies can thrive. It helps regulate caregivers too. Safe carrying

Understanding a bit about newborn physiology will help us to protect their airways - the central focus of babywearing safety. Babies are born with a curved spine. They have a short neck, low muscle tone, bulge at the back of their head and a large tongue. This makes them vulnerable in the early months where poor positioning can lead to slumping. If their upper body and head are not properly supported, their chin may fall to their chest and compromise their airways. An upright position is the safest option for carrying. Cradle positions are more risky and are not generally recommended. The exception is if you are using a sling as a carrying aid for breast/chestfeeding, in which case take extra care. Baby’s head needs to be supported by an arm or hand but free of fabric. It is best practice to bring baby back to an upright position when the feed is complete. Kissable, Visible and Snug: the essentials!

This simple slogan from the South London Sling Library is easy to remember and has most of the key safety elements covered.

Kissable: You should be able to kiss baby’s head without craning your neck. This means your baby will be carried up high on the flat and safe part of your chest. Visible: Baby’s airways are open with their chin lifted off their chest. Nose and mouth are visible and clear of any fabric. Snug: Baby is held as tight as a cuddle in arms, with no slumping. For newborns the fabric of the carrier supports up to the top of baby’s neck, but ideally no higher. In fact anything that presses baby’s head to your body, especially in the soft part of your chest, could potentially compromise their airways. Older babies with good head and neck control can have their arms out of the carrier and be supported to at least the armpits. Baby’s position and comfort

Choose a carrier with a base that will support baby’s bottom and thighs fully, from one knee crease to the next. Tuck their pelvis so their knees are slightly higher than their bum. This helps preserve the natural curve of their spine and is also the optimal position for growing hips. Place baby’s arms and hands up in a high 10 position. This will prevent flopping to the side, plus they love having their hands available to chomp on! Temperature control

Babies don’t regulate their temperature well, so are at risk of overheating. Light layers work best. Remember that the sling or carrier counts as at least one layer and together with your body heat, a warm location or brisk walk, that is like adding several extra layers! Other risks

• The baby can nap in the carrier, but it is not safe for adults to nap while they babywear. • A carrier is not a safe alternative to car or bicycle seats. • Stay clear of high impact exercise or sports. • Check your carrier often for any damage and only purchase carriers from reputable companies. • Take care when placing baby in and out of the carrier. Practice over a soft landing if needed. Your comfort and safety

Once baby’s safety and comfort are taken care of it’s important to look after our own bodies and wellbeing. In terms of which carrier is best, it’s often not what you wear but how you wear it. Slings and carriers are a bit like shoes or jeans. It’s all in the fit. Ultimately when it comes to safety, check in with your baby and your body regularly. Go with your gut. If something doesn’t feel right then you may need to make adjustments or seek expert support.

Tammy Nissim tammy@wearmybaby.co.uk Wear My Baby Letchworth - Babywearing Consultancy & Sling Library

To find out more, please contact Abigail Plested on 01462 234216 or 07730 360282

www.rosebudnannyagency.co.uk info@rosebudnannyagency.co.uk

’

Mrs L, Flamstead

Rosebud Nanny Agency match nannies to families needing childcare in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and South Cambridgeshire.

nanny’s

couldn’t recommend

Mrs P, St Albans

NCT Herts North

Your local branch offers….

Postnatal courses – First Aid, Early Days, Antenatal Refresher, Introducing Solids, Baby Massage Antenatal Yoga Weekly breastfeeding drop-in Sling Library Baby and Toddler groups Nearly New Sales, regular events and social activities

Find out more at www.nct.org.uk/hertsnorth www.facebook.com/NCTHertsNorth All events and activities are open to everyone; we are not just for NCT members!