It is normal for parents to be a bundle of nerves when they take their baby home for the first time. We feel ill-equipped for parenthood and at the same time feel the enormous weight of the responsibly of nurturing a new life!

Finding tools to help meet this responsibility of becoming a parent will help you to build your confidence! One of our recommendations is to baby wear. The evidence of the positive effects of baby wearing is overwhelming on both infants and their parents. Keeping your baby or toddler close and connected to you as you engage in daily activities is the best you can do for our little ones for the following reasons:

• Being held in a snug carrier takes newborns and premature babies back to the nurturing womb world and limits crying and fussing. The transition from the womb to our busy world can expose little babies to over stimulation, which results in fussing in the first few months. Being nurtured in a soft carrier against mum or dad’s body soothes the immature sensory system.
• Held against your body, your baby has the benefits of your touch. Human touch is not only comforting but also wonderful for the development of body awareness.
• Moving with your body, your baby will benefit from vestibular information too, which not only calms your little one but also enhances muscle tone and motor skills in time.
• Babies who are worn are more socially adept as they have loads of experience meeting other people at mummy or daddy’s level. Your baby will reference other people’s faces as well as perceive your response to others socially too.

A baby carrier is a fabulous solution for transporting as well as soothing new babies. The Dreamgenii carrier is recommended for new parents looking for a comfortable carrier that is soft like the womb world, fully adjustable and can be worn so your baby can see out or face inwards. It can be used from birth (3.6kgs) up to 15kg so it's the only carrier you'll need to buy!

When you’re wearing any sling or carrier, we advise to follow a set of guidelines called T.I.C.K.S. to keep your baby close and keep your baby safe.

What does T.I.C.K.S. stand for?

Tight

In view at all times 

Close enough to kiss 

Keep chin off the chest 

Supported Back 

TIGHT – slings and carriers should be tight enough to hug your baby close to you as this will be most comfortable for you both. Any slack/loose fabric will allow your baby to slump down in the carrier which can hinder their breathing and pull on your back.

IN VIEW AT ALL TIMES – you should always be able to see your baby’s face by simply glancing down. The fabric of a sling or carrier should not close around them so you have to open it to check on them.

CLOSE ENOUGH TO KISS – your baby’s head should be as close to your chin as is comfortable. By tipping your head forward you should be able to kiss your baby on the head or forehead.

KEEP CHIN OFF THE CHEST – a baby should never be curled so their chin is forced onto their chest as this can restrict their breathing. Ensure there is always a space of at least a finger width under your baby’s chin.

SUPPORTED BACK – in an upright carrier a baby should be held comfortably close to the wearer so their back is supported in its natural position and their tummy and chest are against you. If a sling is too loose they can slump which can partially close their airway. (This can be tested by placing a hand on your baby’s back and pressing gently - they should not uncurl or move closer to you.) A baby in a cradle carry in a pouch or ring sling should be positioned carefully with their bottom in the deepest part so the sling does not fold them in half pressing their chin to their chest.

Happy Baby Wearing!