WHAT IS PHYSIOLOGICAL CARRYING?
Physiologically carrying your child means carrying him in a natural position : knees higher than the buttocks thanks to a tilted pelvis, a well-rounded back, head-pelvis-spine are aligned, hands are within reach of the face. Other criteria complete this list, such as the fact that the child is at kissing height or that his airways are clear.
Knowledge of the physiological characteristics of the newborn is an essential prerequisite for understanding and implementing the rules of carrying, particularly in the neonatal period.
We speak of physiological position because it is the one that best respects the natural curvature of the child. In the womb, the baby is in the fetal position, with its back curled. At birth, the baby's back is completely rounded, it is said to be in complete kyphosis, in the shape of a C. The back is not yet mature and the spine will stretch as the back becomes muscular.
At birth, the baby's back is completely rounded (total kyphosis), and this is the position that is adapted to the anatomy of the newborn. It reduces vertical pressure in the spine and on the intervertebral discs. This position will evolve as the child develops. By learning to hold his head, the cervical curvature will deepen, the baby is able to hold his head lying on his stomach (cervical lordosis). By working on turning and the four-legged position, the child straightens his back and sits alone (dorsal kyphosis). Then, the baby tries to straighten up and discovers verticality and the standing position (lumbar lordosis).
So, as the baby grows, the carrying position will also change , becoming less rolled up, less close to the wearer's body to allow the baby greater freedom of movement.
CHECK LIST TO RESPECT THE PHYSIOLOGICAL POSITION
- The back is rounded
- His pelvis is tilted forward in a squatting position
- The baby is supported on his buttocks and thighs, not on his crotch or feet.
- Her head aligned with the axis of the spine, within reach of kisses.
- His hands brought back to mouth level
- His legs bent, knees higher than the buttocks, spread naturally, that is to say little at birth and more and more as he grows (we never force the opening of the hips).
THE 10 GOLDEN RULES
It's decided, you want to carry your baby and it's a very good idea ♥ You don't really know where to start, you're afraid of doing it wrong and you wouldn't mind a summary for parents who are new to babywearing? Here are our 10 tips to become a baby carrier pro!
1. RESPECT THE CHILD'S PHYSIOLOGICAL POSITION
Carrying must absolutely respect your baby's physiological position, known as the "M" position.
2. CLEAR BABY'S AIRWAYS
In the baby carrier, your child should keep his face uncovered so he can breathe without hindrance. You should see his little nose and chin free of any obstacles.
3. CARRY BABY HIGH ENOUGH
The ideal position for his head is on top of your chest, right at kissing height.
4. ADJUST THE FABRIC CORRECTLY
The fabric of your baby carrier should fit snugly, so that your baby is held securely against you. It's best to feel a little tight at first!
5. TAKE PRECAUTIONS WITH A NEWBORN
A newborn is so small that we don't always know how to carry him... The rules are the same as for carrying a larger baby, being particularly vigilant about respecting safety rules.
6. DRESS BABY APPROPRIATELY
If it's hot, consider that the baby carrier will act as a baby's clothing and don't cover him up too much. If it's cold, don't forget to take a blanket with you and cover his extremities to protect him from the cold or the sun.
7. DRESS ACCORDINGLY
For more comfort, opt for a t-shirt or a thin sweater, and then cover yourself over it (jacket, coat, scarf, etc.).
8. PROTECT THE CHILD FROM THE SUN
Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, we don't skimp on the means to take care of our fragile skin.
9. STAY ATTENTION TO SENSATIONS
Carrying your baby is above all a question of sensations. You must be comfortable while carrying, just as your baby must feel good. Pay attention to the child's signals and behaviors and do not hesitate to adjust his position if necessary.
10. GET SUPPORT IF NEEDED
If you want to carry your baby but don't feel confident enough to do it alone, consider calling on a professional to help you. Midwives or babywearing instructors, there are many who can give you valuable advice to help you get used to babywearing. At Studio Romeo, we offer a free consultation with our reference babywearing instructor... Enough to get you and your baby hooked!