These three letters crossover but can help ingrain your safety checks.
A is for AIRWAYS
Each carry layer (main panel) should support into the nape of neck (no higher, as this can actually push babys chin on chest, or for baby's with good head control into the armpits. Fabric should be away from face, so use hoods with caution (one side up). Bobbing head? Try ensuring things are tight enough, baby is high enough (so they are super easy to see and monitor), and their knees are held higher than bum (pelvic tuck) encouraged with good knee to knee support (fabric should extend into each kneepit but not overbunch, restrict leg movement - we want full swinging motion from knee to toe!).
B is for BODY POSITION
Get carrier prep done before manoeuvring things carefully around baby. Get baby comfy after bringing them into position. Unfurl if needed and concentrate on baby's hips - M shape (encoraged by good knee to knee support), then spine - gentle J shape (fabric smooth over baby's back). Encourage hands up by face for smaller babies, try arm or two out for babies with good head control. Tummy to tummy ideally, if not tolerated exploring other positions in a consultancy setting. Ensure carrier is correctly tightened to hold position well & avoid slumping, make sure your posture is good when putting on too!
C is for COMFORT
Opt for light layers of clothing (both you and baby) r.e. temperature. Sleepsuits - plenty of wiggleroom in the toes as these can bunch up in a carrier. Remember your sling is at least one extra layer, so heat baby from outside in (coats over top of carrier). With buckles think about strap formation H/X, placement of waistband if applicable to get baby nice and high. When tightening ensure the spine has a gentle curve and weight is on baby's bum as opposed to legs, with good knee to knee support (more difficult with narrow-based carriers once baby is a certain size - though you can use a scarf!)
If you are unsure your carry is doing this then please get in touch for a fitcheck or more in depth support.
Emma
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