Some of the most common questions I get asked during babywearing consultations

Every family is different, but after supporting lots of parents through babywearing consultations, I've noticed that many of the same questions crop up again and again.

Whether you're expecting your first baby, trying to find a carrier that works for your family, or wondering if you're using your current carrier correctly, you're certainly not alone.

Here are some of the questions I hear most often, and the answers I usually give.

Question: Am I Doing This Right / Don't judge me!

Parents often arrive at a consultation worried they're getting something wrong. Even if things are off I am not judging, I am really keen to help support you to understand what we are tweaking, and why, and how you can do it yourself going forwards.

Then your confidence will naturally grow once we've had a few goes :)

Babywearing isn't actually about achieving perfection. It's about learning what is safe enough - what can make things more optimal and finding the best way to do things that work for your family and when you're unsure, asking questions is always the right thing to do.

Question: Which Carrier Is Best?

Unfortunately, there isn't one perfect carrier for everyone. And this is why there are so many options on the marketplace - different slings can suit different things - and while there will be things I'd suggest avoiding, blank recommendations don't work, I can always suggest what you might like but here's why I always suggest trying before buying

The best carrier for your family depends on:

• Your baby's age and stage

• Your body shape

• Your budget / mobility / other health issues / multiple wearers etc we may need to take into consideration

• How you plan to use it

A carrier that one parent absolutely loves may not work well for another. Preferences can be really individual!

Question: Is my baby comfortable?

Parents often worry that their baby's legs, hips or back don't look quite right.

We are always moulding a sling around babies natural seated position

When checking positioning, I focus on:

• Clear airways

• Ensuring legs aren't overspread

• The panel reaches where we need and is tight enough for good support

• Comfort for both parent and baby - clothing can be a consideration here too

• Appropriate positioning for baby's age and development

A comfortable baby usually looks relaxed, well supported and settled against their caregiver.

Question: My baby cries in the carrier, what am I doing wrong?

Usually, nothing. Crying doesn't automatically mean your baby dislikes being carried.

Babies may cry for many reasons including:

• Fit is off

• Hunger

• Colic (just because!)

• Tiredness

• Too warm/Too cold

• Adjusting to a new experience

• Having a difficult day

• Picking up off your anxious cues

Sometimes a simple adjustment helps. Other times, it's simply a matter of practice and patience. Or even trial and erroring different sling-types - maybe positioning too, as an example some refluxy babies won't tolerate tummy to tummy.

Also, take comfort in the fact that babies who initially protest become very happy carriers once they become familiar with the experience.

You can read more in detail about why your baby might cry in the sling and what you can do here

Question: Is My Baby Too Young for a Carrier?

In most cases, healthy newborns can be carried from birth when positioned appropriately in a developmentally suitable carrier. Some carriers are not newborn suitable - you can read here about the ones that are

The key is ensuring:

• Secure Airways

• A tight sling to really support your baby

• Good positioning

Many parents are surprised to learn just how early babywearing can begin.

Read more about safety checks you can do with each and every carry here.

Question: Is my baby too big to be carried now?

This question often comes from parents of older babies and toddlers. And my answer is always no - if they want ups and you're happy carrying then go for it!

Many children continue to enjoy being carried well beyond infancy.

A well-fitted carrier can be useful for:

• School runs

• Travel

• Naps on the go

• Regulation

• Busy days out

• Tired toddler legs

• And more

  
  

The important thing is choosing a carrier that remains supportive and comfortable.

Here's a helpful post on toddler carrying in more detail.

Question: Can I now face my baby outwards?

Parents are often told that if a baby wants to see the world, they must be facing out.

In reality, babies can often see plenty while carried facing their caregiver.

Outward-facing carries may be suitable in certain situations, but they're not essential and aren't usually recommended for long periods.

The most appropriate option depends on your baby, your carrier and the situation.

Read more about facing your baby out here.

Question: Why does my back hurt when I'm carrying?

Discomfort is often a sign that something needs adjusting.

Common causes include:

• Waistband positioned incorrectly

• Loose straps, not positioned quite right

• Carrier not adjusted for baby's current size

A few simple changes can often make carrying significantly more comfortable.

Getting a fitcheck or a consultation can be great for troubleshooting the why's here

Question: Do I need more than one carrier?

Not necessarily. (I ended up with a sling library - perhaps I'm the wrong person to ask - as I can liken them to shoes - different slings for different occasions!)

Some families happily use one carrier from birth through toddlerhood.

And others will prefer different carriers for different situations.

You might choose one carrier for:

• Newborn cuddles

• Dog walks

• Holidays

• Quick trips to the shops

There is no right or wrong answer.

Here's a handy checklist of what you do need to get carrying

Question: What if I forget everything after today?

This always makes me smile because so many parents say it.

Learning a new skill can feel overwhelming at first.

The good news is that babywearing gets easier with practice.

Most parents quickly build confidence once they've used their carrier a few times at home.

And if you forget something, that's completely normal.

Support doesn't have to end when the consultation finishes. I always provide recap materials too! Here's what you can expect from a 1-1 session with me.

Question: Is this ok? Can I do this?

And often the answer comes with nuance 'it depends on xyz'.

Final thoughts

If you've ever worried about whether you're using your carrier correctly, you're in good company. The questions above come up regularly because babywearing is a skill, and like any skill, it takes time to learn.

You don't need to know everything straight away.

A little support, a little practice and a little confidence can go a long way.

And remember, there's no such thing as a silly babywearing question.