You've decided that you want to carry your baby. Yes, it's a great idea ♡, but now you're not sure where to start, you're afraid of doing wrong and you wouldn't be against a recap for parents who are beginners in carrying babies. So here are our 10 tips for becoming a pro baby carrier!
Carrying must imperatively respect your baby's physiological position, which is known as the "M" position. This is actually the natural position the baby takes when snuggled against you, halfway between a sitting and squatting position. The back should be rounded, the pelvis tilted naturally, the knees bent at the navel with thighs facing upwards and spread so that nothing presses on the hips. Finally, the head must be kept in the axis of the spine to rest on the chest of the carrier.
In the baby carrier, the child's face must be left uncovered so they can breathe easily. You must keep the baby's little nose and chin free of any obstructions. This is why the upright position is particularly recommended for carrying, especially if your baby suffers from reflux.
Being able to see your baby's face in the baby carrier is sometimes not enough to ensure a comfortable position and you should also think about your back. The ideal position for the head is on the top of your chest, as if you were going to give your baby a kiss. You should be able to kiss your baby as much as you like without having to twist your body!
The fabric of your Studio Romeo baby carrier must be properly adjusted, so that the baby is correctly supported against you. So it's normal to feel a bit cramped at first. Also be sure to cross the two bands on the baby's upper back so as to cover the shoulders.
Also, as with a conventional scarf, feel free to adjust the fabric by making one or two loops on your shoulders and put the fabric back on your shoulders properly to avoid the bat effect.
Newborn babies are so small that you don't always know how to carry them... Yet this is the moment when they most feel the need to be nestled against us. Specifically, the rules are the same as for carrying a larger baby, being particularly vigilant as regards compliance with the above rules. Also consider supporting the head with a piece of the headband until it can stay in this position unaided. If you are uncomfortable, you can move your baby into position facing you earlier, respecting the natural separation of the hips.
If it's warm, consider that the baby carrier will act like a baby's garment and don't over-cover it. If it's cold, don't forget to take a blanket with you, just in case. And always cover the hands and feet to protect your baby from the cold and sun.
Covering your baby is obvious, but thinking about yourself is also important. For more comfort, carry your child against you, on a t-shirt or a thin sweater, then cover yourself (jacket, coat, scarf, etc.). You'll prevent both of you from feeling too hot if it's sunny and you'll be more free in your movements, without risking waking your sleeping baby.
Whether you're fortunate enough to live in a sunny country, or you simply want to enjoy the sun during a walk with a baby carrier, think about protecting your child from the sun. Use a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen and don't skimp on taking care of baby's delicate skin.
Carrying your baby is all about feelings. You must be comfortable while carrying, just as your baby should feel good. Pay attention to the child's signals and behaviour and don't hesitate to change baby's position if necessary.
If you want to carry your baby but don't feel confident enough to start alone, consider using a professional to help you. Midwives and carrying monitors are just two examples of people who can give you valuable advice to get familiar with carrying. Baby and you will both love it!
Depending on the needs of your child and yours, you can use our baby-carriers for as long as you want, as often as you like… the main thing is for your baby to be well ♡
For any questions or additional information, please don't hesitate to write to us here.
Happy carrying!
Jeanne & the team