To wear your sling, first make sure that your baby is rested, fed, and comfortable. This will make things much easier while you are learning how to babywear. You may also find it helpful to practice placing your baby in the sling with a mirror nearby, which will enable you to make sure the seam is where it is supposed to be. Some people also find it helpful to practice while sitting down until they are confident with babywearing.
Place your sling over one shoulder like a sash. Align the seam down the middle in front of your body. Open the pouch so that there is a little "bucket" type seat. This is where baby's bottom will rest.
Make sure the sling is flat and smooth against your back.
CUDDLE ME CARRY (cradled) (from birth)
Gently cross baby's legs and place him in between the layers of fabric. BE SURE THAT THE FABRIC IS PULLED UP BETWEEN YOU AND BABY.
Once baby is in the pouch, simply pull the fabric up so he is nestled securely in the pouch. His bottom should be resting on the seam of the pouch. BE SURE BABY'S FACE IS NOT COVERED. NEVER RESTRICT BABY'S AIRWAY.
If necessary, gently adjust baby so that he is comfortable. He should be lying across your body with his ear to your chest. This is very comforting to small babies who are reminded of the sounds of the womb as they listen to the heartbeat. Make sure baby's airway is clear and that fabric is not covering his face.
LET ME SEE CARRY (facing forward) (3-10 months)
Start off with the same steps as you would for the Cuddle Me Carry, simply making sure the seam is down the middle and placing baby in the sling cross-legged. Instead of lying sideways, however, baby should be sitting up cross-legged in the sling. Gently make sure baby is leaning back toward your body and that his weight is securely down in the pouch. This allows baby to see around once he has the strength to hold his head up on his own. Babies LOVE this carry because is lets them see the world with you nearby!
To reduce any slack at the shoulder, turn top layer of fabric over your shoulder. This makes the sling even more secure and reveals the other pretty side of the sling.
HUG ME CARRY (tummies together) (5 mos. +)
For this carry, make a bucket seat with the seam of the sling. Slide baby down into it, and make sure the fabric is up behind baby's knees. Baby's legs should be bent, and all of his weight should be on his bottom, not his legs.
BY MY SIDE CARRY (on the hip) (6 mos. +)
For this carry, start with the Hug Me Carry and simply slide baby over to your hip. This is great for tired toddlers who just want to be close to mommy.
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