Support your baby in the recommended “M” position

To facilitate the natural growth and development of your baby’s hips and set a good foundation for spinal development, it is recommended to wear your baby in the “M” position:

• Thighs supported by the carrier

• Knees bent at 90 degrees, positioned higher than the pelvis

• Legs free outside the carrier

Tip: If your baby’s knees extend beyond 90 degrees, the carrier base is too broad for your baby. If your baby’s knees fall below the pelvis, the carrier base is too narrow for your baby. Although no evidence shows that carrying a baby a certain way will result in conditions such as hip dysplasia, we do know that unsupportive positions do not encourage child development.

Can I wear my baby in front, facing out?

Wearing your baby facing outward is currently in style, but this position limits bonding, does not promote hip and joint health, and may also...

• Reduce your baby’s ability to learn and interpret the world through you: He or she looks at your reactions to understand what is happening in the environment. When we face babies outwards, they cannot see us and are left without guidance.

• Be overstimulating for them: Babies are thrilled to see all the action. However, it can also be too much for them to process and a bit unsettling.

• Be unsafe for rest and sleep: If your baby wants to sleep, there is nowhere to rest their head except to lean forward, which may obstruct their airway.

Choosing inward-facing positions ensures better support for your baby's developing hips and spine, facilitates bonding, and provides a safer environment for rest and sleep. The Helina Baby Carrier is designed to be worn on the front and back of the parent, always keeping the baby facing inward toward the parent.

MORE TIPS

Position your baby’s head away from your body

When using a carrier, the safest position for your baby’s head is turned away from your body with his or her chin away from their chest (a two-finger distance) to keep an open airway. Head placement is essential, especially for newborns, since they do not have the neck strength to reposition their heads if their airways are obstructed.

Wear your baby high on your body

You can reduce strain on your back, shoulders and neck by carrying your baby at or above your navel (baby’s bottom at or above your navel).

Back-carry only when your child is ready

If you decide to do a back carry, make sure your child can sit unassisted. It is easier and safer to do back carries when your child has developed the core and neck strength to sit up independently.