In light of the recent bad publicity that babywearing has received with the
recall of the Infantino Sling due to 3 infant deaths, I thought I would share a few tip on babywearing safety. (Please note: The style of the Infantino Sling is entirely different than any baby carrier I have used or recommend. In my opinion, it was poorly designed and it is a good thing it was recalled. I would avoid any carriers created similarly.)
Here are some important guidelines to remember when wearing an infant:
- Check to ensure that your baby is not curled up tightly in a chin-to-chest position; this compresses your baby's airway. Making sure there is a fingers' width or two between their chin and chest is a good guide.
- Make sure your baby's back is straight and supported.
- Monitor your child at all times. Make sure nothing is obstructing their face.
- Be aware of how your movements affect the baby: avoid any bumping or jarring motions.
- Make sure your baby is properly positioned.
I think babywearing is a wonderful thing. It promotes bonding and allows the baby in arms while letting mama still get things accomplished. With Little Man,
my ring sling has been a life saver! I always wear him when I am out shopping and often at church or other outings/events. He will sleep for hours in the sling! It's also great for nursing on the go. I just throw the tail over my shoulder for privacy, and do whatever I need to do. I've nursed him in the sling at Disney, Gatlinburg, and Wal-Mart to name a few places. It makes nursing so much more convenient. Everyone just thinks he's asleep, and I just let them go on thinking that. Here's a picture of me wearing him in Gatlinburg when he was just a few weeks old.
I also have a wrap similar to
this that is great when we take walks. I hope to someday buy this beautiful
wrap, and also make a Mei Tai using this great
tutorial.
I would highly encourage all of you baby Mama's out there to use some type of baby carrier instead of a stroller when possible, just make sure you use safety and common sense. For more information on babywearing, please click
here.
Always,
Amanda
