v      Cradle Hold or Reclining Hold

  Most popular with newborns or for nursing.  In this hold the baby lies down in the pouch or ring sling.  In the cradle hold the baby is more tucked down into the sling than in the reclining hold.

v      Snuggle Hold (Tummy to tummy)

  This hold works well for a wide range of ages.  This carry and the back carry are the primary carries used with an ABC type carrier is also a popular hold for wraps and slings and can also be done with a pouch.  In this hold the baby faces the person carrying them.  The baby’s legs can be tucked in for smaller babies or left out for older babies and toddlers.

v      Front Facing Out

  Legs in (Kangaroo Carry)  Ideal for babies 4 to 12 months. This hold faces out with baby’s legs crossed “froggy’ style in front of them inside the sling. Mostly done with ring slings and pouches (opposed to the legs out that can only be done using a wrap or ABC)

      Legs out This is similar to the Kangaroo carry but baby’s legs are out side of the wrap or ABC.  Do not attempt his carry with a ring sling or pouch.  Be sure when you use this carry that baby’s legs are bent and their weight is supported by their legs not their crotch (i.e. that the baby’s legs aren’t just dangling).  If the baby is positioned upright, with the legs hanging down and the bodyweight supported at the base of the baby's spine (the crotch), it puts undue stress on the spine which may adversely affect the development of the spinal curves.

  When using any facing out hold be sure that baby is able to turn away.  Some babies may become over-stimulated if they can not turn away from activity.

v      Hip Carry

  The hip carry and back carry are the two most popular carries for toddlers.  Ring slings and pouches are the preferred carriers for this carry, however, short wraps and ABC’s can also be used.

v      Back Carry

  Back carries can be used from birth, however it is recommended that only very experienced babywearers attempt a back carry with a very young baby.  A wrap or ABC is the preferred carry for a back carry but a pouch or ring sling can also be used for short durations.

(Pictures will be added soon!)