Babies instinctively assume a squatting-straddling position when you pick them up. The legs are held in a bow-legged position, the back curved, so that you can carry your little treasure ideally. This shows that, just like baby apes, we are meant to be carried. Through carrying:
- Babies build a close relationship with their parents through the close body contact at the chest.
- Little ones cry less.
- Babies become more attentive.
- They reduce fears and tension.
- They experience security and comfort.
Frequent carrying therefore optimally supports your child’s development and gives them self-confidence. That’s why you can’t carry your baby too often and spoil them with plenty of love.
How Should I Best Carry My Baby?
The M-position is considered the ideal position for the baby because it corresponds to the physiological baby position. From a rear view, the baby’s bottom and legs form an M when carried correctly, as your baby slightly bends its legs. For newborns, the head should be properly carried and supported by the hand or arm during breastfeeding, and in baby carriers, a head support must be present during the first months.
What is the Physiological Baby Position?
The physiological position that the baby adopts when carried correctly consists of rolling in the back, pulling up the knees, and keeping the limbs bent, just like in the womb. In this position (the so-called “frog position”), it is easier for the baby to hold its head. In addition, the natural rocking while carrying leads to muscle relaxation and thus promotes your baby’s sleep. Additionally, this posture promotes digestion and reduces reflux and colic.
More and more baby carriers enable not only carrying chest-to-chest, but also on the back, on the hip, or in front of the stomach. Are these positions safe?
As previously mentioned, the M-position corresponds to the natural posture of the baby and is optimally supported by a baby wrap. This way, you can also correctly carry your baby on your back, hip, or stomach without straining your own muscles too much.
Can I Properly Carry My Baby Facing Forward?
Yes, but please be careful! When you carry your baby facing forward, it is encouraged to open up to the world around and interact with the outside world. But caution: This position should only be considered when your baby can hold its head on its own, and only for a short time (about 20 minutes) to avoid the risk of overstimulation. So if you notice that your baby is getting tired, it’s time to turn it back toward you to carry it.
How Do I Find the Best Carrying and Binding Techniques for Me?
You’re wondering which baby carrier (wrap or carrier) is best for you and your newborn? The main thing is comfort and safety. Whatever feels best for you and your baby and ensures safety is the right way to carry:
- The baby wrap is the oldest and probably best form of transport for babies and can be used flexibly. However, some find tying the wrap too cumbersome when they take their newborn out of the cradle.
- The carrying pouch is uncomplicated to tie. The head and feet stick out. You carry your child correctly on your belly and, when it gets heavier later, also on your back.
- If you’re out and about a lot, back carriers with frames are suitable. Here your baby is secured with straps, like in a car seat. Pleasant extras like a sun roof make transport as comfortable as possible for you and your baby. This variant is ideal especially for excursions or outdoor activities with the family.
Which carrier is right for you ultimately depends on you and your leisure activities. We’ll introduce you to the most important baby carriers below.