Proper Babywearing & Safety

Why not the Bjorn/Snugli?
Bjorns, Snuglis, and other carriers that allow for the forward-facing out position are not ergonomically correct for babies spines. A good carrier allows for a seat that spreads from knee to knee and positions the knees above where the bum rests, allowing for a comfortable seated position (picture here). When the seat is too narrow (as is the case with Snugli and Bjorn carriers) the baby's weight is all put on the baby's crotch, putting pressure on not only the crotch area but the hips and spine as well.

Why Not Forward-Facing?
The carriers recommended here all utilize proper positioning to prevent hip dysplasia, hollow-back positioning, and over-stimulation that can be caused by a child facing outward away from the mother. When a child faces outward he or she is forced to watch the world around them without the option of nuzzling into the wearer if he or she becomes overstimulated. When a child gets to the age where he or she desires to watch his or her surroundings, we recommend using a back carrier. This will allow the child the option to look around, but still the ability to nuzzle when tired, frightened or overstimulated and allows for proper, safe and healthy positioning.

Please view our links in the right-hand sidebar under "Why not the Bjorn/Snugli?" and "Why not forward-facing?" for resources and more information.

Close Enough to Kiss
When worn on the front, a child should be high enough in the carrier for you to easily kiss the top of their head. This allows for optimum comfort and, most importantly, the safety of your child. When he or she is close to you it allows you to make sure that they are breathing properly and that they are comfortable. Always make sure your child has proper air flow and that his or her chin is not pressed up against their chest, blocking easy air flow. A child should never be worn in a low-hanging carrier such as a bag sling. This carrier not only puts a child in an unsafe position, but also places the child so low that it makes it difficult for the wearer to make sure the baby is breathing properly. Furthermore, they are not comfortable for wearer or wearee. Many of these have been recalled.