Baby slings and baby carriers offer us a delicious closeness with our little bugs, and they leave our hands free for other jobs. Babies, of course, adore being enveloped in the rich presence of our warmth, scent, movement, touch and sound! And, a 1986 Canadian study found that carrying babies for 3 hours a day (in parents’ arms or a sling) reduced fussing by 43%! What’s not to love?

However, if you decide to wear your baby, just be sure to do it safely...

Safe Baby Wearing Tips

  • Buy a sling that’s not too deep. Your baby should sit high enough for you to see his face. (Babies can suffocate if allowed to sink into the bottom of the bag.)
  • Support your infant’s back and chin: If your baby’s face falls forward, toward his chest, it may be hard for him to breathe or cry for help.
  • Prevent falling: Hold your little one snugly enough so that he can’t slide out.
  • Avoid hot food: Never carry your baby when you’re handling hot food or liquids.

 Enjoy!

About Dr. Harvey Karp

Dr. Harvey Karp, one of America’s most trusted pediatricians, is the founder of Happiest Baby and the inventor of the groundbreaking SNOO Smart Sleeper. After years of treating patients in Los Angeles, Dr. Karp vaulted to global prominence with the release of the bestselling Happiest Baby on the Block and Happiest Toddler on the Block. His celebrated books and videos have since become standard pediatric practice, translated into more than 20 languages and have helped millions of parents. Dr. Karp’s landmark methods, including the 5 S’s for soothing babies, guide parents to understand and nurture their children and relieve stressful issues, like new-parent exhaustion, infant crying, and toddler tantrums.

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Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.