Using a baby ring sling involves threading the fabric through the rings, positioning it on your body, placing your baby inside, and adjusting for a secure and comfortable fit. Here's a breakdown:
Steps to Using a Baby Ring Sling
-
Thread the Sling: Hold the rings in one hand. Take the tail (end) of the sling fabric and thread it through both rings. Then, bring the tail back over the top ring and thread it under the bottom ring. This creates the adjustable fastening system.
-
Position the Sling: Drape the sling over your shoulder, with the rings resting comfortably on your collarbone or slightly below. The fabric should spread evenly across your back. The tail of the fabric should hang down in front of you. Decide which shoulder feels most comfortable to carry the weight.
-
Create the Pouch: Gather the fabric hanging in front of you, creating a pouch or seat for your baby. Adjust the fabric through the rings to make the pouch the desired size and depth.
-
Position Your Baby: Hold your baby securely and gently guide them into the pouch you've created. Ensure they are in a safe and ergonomic position:
- Newborns: Can be held in a cradle carry or tummy-to-tummy position. Ensure their airway is always visible and unobstructed.
- Older Babies: Can be carried in a hip carry, which allows them to see the world around them. Their bum should be lower than their knees (creating an "M" shape with their legs), supporting healthy hip development. This is sometimes described as "bum in seat."
-
Adjust the Sling: Once your baby is in the sling, adjust the fabric to ensure a snug and secure fit. The fabric should be tight enough that your baby is held close to your body, preventing them from slumping. Pull the tail of the fabric downward through the rings to tighten the sling. Lift up on the rings and gently jiggle to let any slack out of the top rail and bottom rail.
-
Safety Check: Always check the following before moving around:
- Tightness: The baby should be snug and secure against your body.
- Visibility: You should be able to easily see your baby's face.
- Proximity: Your baby should be close enough to kiss.
- Positioning: Their bum should be lower than their knees.
Key Considerations
- Practice: It may take a few tries to get comfortable using the ring sling. Practice in front of a mirror or with a spotter.
- Comfort: Adjust the sling frequently to maintain comfort for both you and your baby. Spread the fabric across your shoulder to distribute weight evenly.
- Safety: Always prioritize your baby's safety. Follow the TICKS guidelines for safe babywearing:
- Tight
- In view at all times
- Close enough to kiss
- Keep chin off chest
- Supported back
By following these steps, you can safely and comfortably use a baby ring sling to keep your baby close while keeping your hands free.
