By: Victoria H

March is here and spring is just around the corner.  Even though the groundhog predicted six more weeks of winter, the days are getting longer which means more opportunities for you to get out and about.  For those who agree that lugging the stroller around can be bulky and stressful, baby carriers may be the solution.  Baby wearing can offer you some freedom to accomplish more, rest your arms, and feel closer to your little one.

There are many kinds of baby carriers available for a broad range of prices.  The media is constantly advertising different types of baby carriers and the market is saturated with so many brands.  It’s important to keep in mind the integrity of the company and safety of the product while shopping.  Popular name brands, like TushBaby, Ergobaby and Momcozy, meet CPSC manufacturing and safety standards in America.  Make sure you read reviews, check company certifications, and research CPSC’s website for recalls to reduce the risk of SIDS.

A helpful acronym to remember when babywearing is TICKS: make sure the carrier is Tight, baby’s face is In view at all times, head is Close enough to kiss, Keep baby’s chin off their chest, and Support baby’s back.  You want to make sure the baby’s airways are unobstructed, their legs are properly supported to prevent hip dysplasia, and that baby does not overheat.  There is a helpful PDF for the acronym on their website, which is accessible in the QR code on the following page. It is imperative that you follow manufacturer instructions on how to properly wear your baby. You can join baby-wearing forums on various social media platforms and consult your baby’s healthcare team for support when choosing and wearing the safest carrier.  

I have learned that babies go through different phases of tolerance with wearing.  My baby never liked the wrap, loved the ring sling at month 3, then would only sit on the hip seat up until 6 months old where she now prefers a buckled carrier.  Don’t give up and go with the flow of your baby’s comfort. Maybe your little one has become more interested in their environment and likes to look around, if so, a buckle carrier may be the best option.  Your toddler could be up and down, wanting to walk and be held, making the TushBaby the best carrier. If your little one wants to feel close and safe, soft baby wraps may provide the best comfort. Remember that every baby is different and may have different preferences according to their developmental stage.  

There’s no secret that women are powerful. For centuries, we have been the queens of multitasking and the ones who typically keep the houses, families, and societies together all while carrying the baby! You should feel proud and capable of being the beautifully strong woman that you are. Like all the women and advocates before us, we are resilient and capable of promoting change, while loving and nurturing those along the way.  Don’t underestimate yourself and the power of your community.  March is Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day is on March 8th.  So put on your sweet baby and check out your local library for educational books, free activities for the kids, and to potentially connect with other powerful women in the community.  You are doing great and will continue to do great like all the women before us.  You got this mama!