If you’re a parent to a tiny little one, then you know by now how much they hate it when you put them down to get tasks done.
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Babies like being held in the arms of their parents and staying as close to them as possible at all times. It brings them comfort and helps them feel safe. And although we’re sure you wouldn’t mind coddling your baby all day long, thi simple isn’t realistic. Especially when there’s a whole list of chores that require your hands to be free. But now, with the invention of the baby carrier, you can do both! There are so many wonderful benefits of babywearing. From supporting the baby’s natural posture to reducing infant crying. Not to mention, strengthening the bond between baby and her caregivers and more. Using a baby carrier is a win-win for you and your baby, emotionally, cognitively and physically. But before you jump right into the world of babywearing, here are a few things that you should know about using a baby carrier.
1. You Can Start Using Your Baby Carrier From Day One
Good news for parents for parents of newborns. Your baby is never too little for a baby carrier. In fact you can start using it from the day of delivery. Most parents assume that they cannot use a baby carrier for their little one until they are at least 6 weeks old, or they wait to use one until then. But this is absolutely unnecessary. In fact you can take a baby carrier with you to the hospital and use it the day your baby is born, as long as they weigh at least seven pounds. This is a great way to get in the benefits of skin to skin contact right from the start. And besides, babies love to be as close to their parents at all times anyway. Just make sure that your baby meets the minimum weight requirement for your baby carrier, and in some cases, you’ll need to use an infant insert until they reach a certain weight.
2. Do Your Research On Different Baby Carriers 
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There are so many different kinds of baby carriers out there, so you are bound to find something that you find suitable for your baby! The most popularly used carriers in today’s day and age are wraps, slings, soft-structured (often referred to as “buckle”) and Mei Tai baby carriers. Now we know this all sounds complex but it really is not. Research about the various types online and make sure to check the safety reviews. You could always ask family and friends about the baby carriers they usually use and prefer and go check out the different types of carriers in store before you make your purchase. We’re sure that you enquiring about carriers in your friend group might even prompt one of them to lend you one if their baby no longer has need of it!
3. Know The Different Baby Carrying Positions And When To Use Them 
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Contrary to popular belief there is more than one way to carry your baby in a baby carrier. And the different positions in which you must carry them greatly depend on their age, weight and development stage.
Front Inward Facing- This is the position you want to carry your newborn in and continue to do so until they’ve reached at least 4 months of age. Your baby needs to be able to completely rely on you for support and lean on your body. They can’t support their head just yet so the front inward facing positing is perfect. Front Onward Facing- This position is most suitable for babies between 4 to 6 months old. You can finally use this position as your baby’s neck is strong enough to hold up their head. Hip Carry- This position can be used if you have a baby who is 6 months old and above. This is when your baby starts to want to get up and get down out of the carrier and it can be exhausting to comply when wearing them in the previous two positions. The best way to satisfy your baby’s curiosity while still keeping them on you is to carry them on the hip. This way your baby is free to explore while still being safe. Back Carry– This is also suitable for babies who are 6 months old and above. If your baby is getting a little too heavy to carry on either side of the hip then simply carry them on your back!
Baby carriers are indeed a blessing. They allow parents to stay close to their baby and bond with them while still getting tasks done and that’s exactly what modern parents need. So pick up a baby carrier and enjoy spending time with your baby all day long, minus the aching arms.
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Kezia John, BA
Kezia holds a deep interest in writing about women adapting to motherhood and childcare. She writes on several topics that help women navigate the joys and responsibilities of being a new mom and celebrate every stage of their baby’s development. When she is not writing for MomJunction, she sings in a classical Western choir and reads endlessly.View Profile ›LATEST ARTICLES
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Source: momjunction.com
