5 Guidelines for Safe Baby Wearing

What are the guidelines for safe baby wearing?

You have probably heard several different rules about how to baby wear properly. It may seem like a lot to keep track of, especially if you are a new parent. Yet, there is a simple way to remember safe baby wearing guidelines! Just tick off the ‘T.I.C.K.S’ checklist!

Read about the origins of baby wearing here.

1. T is for ‘Tight’

This is important not only for safety, but for you and your baby’s comfort as well. Your carrier should be tight enough that your baby does not swing if you lean forward or sway while you walk. This is one of the mistakes I witness parents making most often and it makes my shoulders and back hurt for them as well as causes me worry over the baby’s safety. Your baby’s body should never slump. Their bottom should never be below their knees. You also want to make sure their knees are supported and they are not ‘dangling from their crotch’.

2. I is for ‘In View at All Times’.

Look, Listen, and be aware of your baby while using a baby carrier. Your baby should never have fabric in their face making it impossible for you to see them.

3. C is for ‘Close enough to kiss’.

This is one of my favorite quick tests you can do to check and make sure that your baby is secure and safe in your baby carrier. Just kiss their little head! Your baby’s head should be close enough to your chin that you can easily kiss the top of their head.

4. K is for ‘Keep Chin off of Chest’

This one is so important. It should be your #1 priority to make sure your baby’s chin is not on their chest. This can hinder their breathing and restrict airflow. This is the same reason why babies should not be left in removable baby car seats to sleep when they are not in the car.

5. S is for ‘Supported Back’

Making sure your baby does not have a slouching back in their baby carrier is another way to ensure they have proper airflow and can breathe. Their bottom should NOT be lower than their knees.

Resources

Ergo Baby

Carrying Matters

Jenni Jenkins – Sekine is an Oklahoma City Bereavement, Birth, & Postpartum doula and Child Birth Educator who serves her Central Oklahoma community. She is also a midwifery assistant with Holistic Birthing Services and began her journey as a student midwife with the Midwives College of Utah in 2022.

Jenni is also the creator & facilitator of the Kaleidoscope OKC LGBTQ Family Support Group & the Nurture Oklahoma Live Interview Series.

To learn more about Jenni, please click here.