Positioning
It is important to ensure that your child is in a comfortable and physiologically correct position when using a carrier. The ideal position in any carrier has your child in a “froggy-position” with their bum lower than their knees and their hips spread. The fabric of the carrier should extend from knee-to knee, supporting them evenly. For front and hip carries, your child should be high enough to be able to kiss the top of their head whilst in the carrier.
Note how the child's bottom is lower than their knees and the material of the carrier extends to the pit of the knee.
The Library does not recommend the use of the front facing outwards (FFO) position that is used with many mass produced carriers. In this position the baby’s full weight rests on their crotch rather than being evenly spread across the thighs and buttocks, thus reducing their comfort. They do not hold the baby’s hips in the froggy position which is ideal for hip joint development. For more information on why this position is not recommended please see the Sling Guide information page. We can provide safe and comfortable alternatives to this position.
The Library does not recommend the use of the front facing outwards (FFO) position that is used with many mass produced carriers. In this position the baby’s full weight rests on their crotch rather than being evenly spread across the thighs and buttocks, thus reducing their comfort. They do not hold the baby’s hips in the froggy position which is ideal for hip joint development. For more information on why this position is not recommended please see the Sling Guide information page. We can provide safe and comfortable alternatives to this position.