Babywearing comes with many wonderful advantages, with convenience as the most obvious benefit. By wearing your baby, a mama can move around more freely and go about daily tasks because your hands are unoccupied. Babywearing also strengthens the bond between the mother and child, thanks to hours of skin-to-skin contact.
But while the thought of wrapping a sling around your body and putting your baby in there seems like a quick and easy fix to your motherhood woes, it’s important to know that there are considerations and guidelines that need to be followed for safe babywearing.
After all, you would not want to compromise your little one’s welfare. So make sure to avoid making these babywearing mistakes, mama!
1. Not being familiar with the T.I.C.K.S. Rule
It is the acronym that helps you remember how to comfortably and safely wear your precious baby.
Tight: Your baby carrier should be tight enough to hug your baby close so they don’t slump down in the carrier.
In view at all times: You should always be able to see your baby’s face so you can monitor their breathing.
Close enough to kiss: If you can’t kiss the top of your baby’s head, it’s time to reposition them in the carrier.
Keep chin off chest: When the baby’s chin is pressed against their chest, this could restrict their breathing. Ensure you can put at least a finger between the chin and the chest.
Supported back: The baby carrier should be able to support your baby’s back in its natural position so it isn’t bent or twisted.
2. Not considering the age of the child
Wearing newborns who can’t hold their heads up yet may result in neck injuries or suffocation. Some carrier brands recommend that only the hip seat be used in a horizontal position for babies under 4 months old, while some require you to use a newborn insert in your carrier. It’s important to check if your baby meets the minimum weight requirement before wearing them, and to strictly follow the age or weight guidelines of the carrier.
3. Not being mindful and careful
There are activities you must not do while wearing the baby as it can be dangerous for both of you. Do not drink hot liquids or eat hot foods as you don’t want these to spill on your baby’s sensitive head. Be careful when taking the stairs or walking on slippery surfaces. If you can, avoid areas where there are slip, trip, and fall hazards.
4. Not thinking about your own comfort and safety
Your comfort is important too, mama. While you ensure that the baby is safely worn, it’s equally important that the carrier you use and how you wear it should not be giving you back issues or injuries.
5. Not doing your research on the different baby carriers
With a wide range of slings, wraps, and carriers available in the market, and the countless ways of wearing them, it can get a tad bit overwhelming. Hence, it’s important to learn about your options so you get to discover which one is the best for you and your little bean.
