Navigating the world of babywearing can be overwhelming, especially with the myriad of terms and jargon used by seasoned babywearers. To help you on your babywearing journey, we’ve compiled a comprehensive glossary of essential terms. This guide will enhance your understanding of babywearing concepts, ensuring you can make informed decisions and communicate effectively within the babywearing community.
Babywearing Glossary
A
Adjustable Carrier: A baby carrier that can be resized or adjusted to fit different body types and carry positions, ensuring a comfortable fit for both the caregiver and the baby.
A-Frame Carry: A carry position where the baby is placed in a wrap or carrier with their legs spread apart, forming an “A” shape. This position supports healthy hip development.
B
Back Carry: A babywearing position where the baby is carried on the caregiver’s back. Ideal for older babies and toddlers, it allows for greater freedom of movement for the caregiver.
Buckle Carrier: Also known as a Soft Structured Carrier (SSC), this type of carrier features buckles for easy fastening and adjustment. It typically includes padded shoulder straps and a waistband.
Breathable Fabric: Fabric that allows air circulation, keeping both the caregiver and the baby cool and comfortable. Common materials include cotton, linen, and mesh.
C
Carrier Panel: The main body of a baby carrier that supports the baby’s back, neck, and bottom. It connects to the shoulder straps and waistband in buckle carriers.
Cradle Carry: A carrying position where the baby is placed in a horizontal or semi-horizontal position, often used for breastfeeding. It is important to ensure the baby’s airways remain clear.
Cross Carry: A type of carry in which the fabric crosses over the caregiver’s body, providing support and distributing weight evenly.
D
Detachable Hood: A hood attached to some baby carriers that can be used to protect the baby’s head from the sun or to provide privacy while breastfeeding.
Double Hammock: A secure and supportive back carry wrap technique where the fabric is wrapped around the caregiver and baby in two layers for added security.
E
Ergonomic Position: A position that supports the natural alignment of the baby’s hips, spine, and neck. The “M” position, where the baby’s knees are higher than their bottom, is an example of an ergonomic position.
Extendable Panel: A feature in some carriers that allows the main body panel to be extended, accommodating the growing size of the baby.
F
Forward-Facing Carry: A carry position where the baby faces outward, away from the caregiver. While it allows the baby to explore their surroundings, it should be used sparingly to avoid overstimulation and ensure proper support.
Front Carry: A babywearing position where the baby is carried on the caregiver’s front, facing either inward or outward.
H
Hip Carry: A carrying position where the baby is seated on the caregiver’s hip, allowing for easy interaction and a natural carrying posture.
Hybrid Carrier: A type of carrier that combines features of different carrier styles, such as the structured support of an SSC and the versatility of a wrap.
I
Infant Insert: An additional accessory used in some baby carriers to provide extra support for newborns and smaller infants, ensuring they are positioned safely and comfortably.
Inward-Facing Carry: A carry position where the baby faces the caregiver, promoting bonding and ensuring proper support for the baby’s head, neck, and spine.
M
M Position: Also known as the “spread squat” position, where the baby’s knees are higher than their bottom, forming an “M” shape. This position supports healthy hip development.
Mei Tai: A traditional Asian-style baby carrier with a rectangular fabric panel and long straps that tie around the caregiver’s waist and shoulders.
N
Nursing Carry: A position that facilitates breastfeeding while the baby is in the carrier. Ensuring proper latch and baby’s airways are clear is crucial.
P
Pouch Sling: A simple, tubular piece of fabric worn over one shoulder to create a pocket for carrying the baby. It is sized to fit and does not have adjustable features.
Pre-Tied Wrap: A wrap that is pre-tied by the caregiver before placing the baby in the carrier, making it quicker and easier to use.
R
Ring Sling: A baby carrier made from a long piece of fabric threaded through two rings to create a sling. It is worn over one shoulder and adjusted by pulling the fabric through the rings.
S
Seat: Refers to the way the fabric or carrier supports the baby’s bottom and legs. A good seat will ensure the baby is in an ergonomic position.
Soft Structured Carrier (SSC): A carrier with a padded body panel, shoulder straps, and waist belt, secured with buckles. It provides structured support and is easy to use.
T
Tandem Carry: Carrying two children simultaneously, often with one child on the front and the other on the back. This requires advanced babywearing skills and suitable carriers.
Tight: Ensuring the carrier is snug enough to support the baby securely against the caregiver’s body without causing discomfort.
W
Woven Wrap: A long piece of woven fabric used to carry a baby in various positions. It offers versatility and support, suitable for different ages and sizes.
Wrap Cross Carry (WCC): A common carry technique using a woven wrap, where the fabric crosses over the caregiver’s body to create a secure hold.
Conclusion
Understanding the terminology and concepts related to babywearing is essential for making informed decisions and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. This glossary serves as a valuable resource for both new and experienced babywearers, helping you navigate the world of baby carriers with confidence.
For more detailed articles, tips, and community support on babywearing, be sure to explore our blog and connect with us on social media.
Happy babywearing!
