In real life, many parents choose to use a baby carrier to free up their hands while easily carrying their baby.
During holidays, it’s common to see mothers using baby carriers while carrying their children in tourist spots, and many celebrity moms abroad also prefer using baby carriers when going out, as they look aesthetically pleasing and are convenient.
However, while the baby carrier is often considered a “magical tool” for carrying babies, some parents still worry: Will using the carrier long-term affect the baby’s development? At what age can a baby start using a carrier?
In fact, as long as we use the baby carrier correctly, it brings many benefits to the baby’s growth. Children carried in a carrier will experience differences in development compared to those who aren’t.
Differences Between Babies Who Are Carried with a Baby Carrier and Those Who Aren’t
- Babies in Carriers Feel Safer
We all know that when a baby first enters this world, they need time to adjust. During this period, babies become especially attached to their mother’s embrace, craving physical contact to feel safe.
When mothers carry their babies in a carrier, they can maintain constant physical closeness, and the baby is “wrapped” and “swayed,” creating an environment similar to the womb. In this process, the baby feels more secure and safe.
- Babies in Carriers Have Better Development
Parents of premature babies may know that doctors often recommend carrying the baby more frequently to promote development.
When a baby is carried in a carrier, they feel secure and comfortable, which helps improve their sleep quality. Growth hormones, which are essential for development, are mostly secreted during sleep, and babies who sleep well tend to grow better.
Additionally, babies in carriers are positioned in a way that allows them to have a broader view of their surroundings, which is beneficial for their visual development, cognitive ability, and brain growth.
- Babies in Carriers Have Closer Parent-Child Relationships
Babies have an inherent dependency on their mothers. When a mother carries her baby in a carrier, they are always close to each other. The baby is less likely to cry or fuss and becomes more attached to the mother, strengthening their parent-child bond.
Common Misconceptions About Using Baby Carriers
1. Babies Under 4 Months Should Not Use a Carrier
The American Academy of Pediatrics has stated that baby carriers are not recommended for babies under 4 months or those who have not yet gained head control because their necks do not have the necessary support, and they are more prone to injury.
Before 4 months, babies’ bones are still soft, and their spine forms a “C” shape, lacking the ability to control their head. Using a carrier too early may lead to spinal deformities and even pose suffocation risks.
2. Correct Positioning While Using a Baby Carrier
Many mothers worry that their baby’s legs may be spread too far apart in a carrier, which could affect leg development, so they try to force the baby’s legs straight.
In fact, the opposite is true. Forcing the baby’s legs straight in a carrier can lead to dislocation and hip joint damage over time.
The correct posture in a carrier is to ensure that the baby’s legs are as spread apart as possible, with the thighs naturally forming an “M” shape. This supports the natural curvature of the legs and is better for leg development.
Choosing the Right Baby Carrier
- Sturdy and Durable
When purchasing a carrier, durability is crucial. You should check whether the carrier is sturdy, inspect the workmanship for neat stitching, and ensure that the materials used are high-quality to guarantee the safety of the baby.
- Adjustable Design
Babies grow quickly, so a carrier should have an adjustable design to accommodate changes in size. The shoulder straps should be wide and adjustable to make carrying more comfortable.
- Breathable Material
Since the mother and baby are closely connected while using the carrier, and sweating is common during summer, the carrier’s breathability is important. Choose a model made from breathable, soft materials.
Choose the Right Carrier Based on Baby’s Age
For babies aged 4-6 months, whose neck muscles are not fully developed, a front-facing carrier is recommended.
For babies aged 6-10 months, if they can sit up independently, you can use either a front-facing carrier or a waist-seat carrier.
For babies over 10 months, depending on the situation, both front and back-facing carriers are suitable.
Conclusion:
Although using a baby carrier can save a lot of energy when going out with your baby, be mindful of the common pitfalls.
Finally, we hope you choose the right baby carrier and use it correctly to ensure your baby’s safety when going out.