Carry Positions
Cradle Hold
(Newborn)
If your baby is newborn or small and doesn’t yet have head control this will probably the
first carry position you will use. It is also the one you will use for feeding/nursing in the
sling. If you are using the sling for a newborn or small baby they can sometimes look a little
lost in the sling (don’t worry they grow so quickly s/he will soon fill it). You may find it
helps to place a folded lightweight sheet or swaddling wrap under the baby to raise them
slightly in the sling. Many babies like to lie scrunched up like they were in the womb as this
gives them a sense of comfort and the natural movement of the sling also mirrors that which
they felt whilst in the womb. Please remember that your baby’s airway needs to be kept clear
and so placing them on a folded sheet as described helps achieve this.
You will already have formed a pouch with the sling. This
is the area into which you are going to place your baby.
Begin with a fairly large pouch as shown, as this makes it
easier for placing the baby in and once in place you will
tighten the sling around the baby forming a cosy, secure
cocoon.
Handy Tip: I keep the inside edge tight against me so that
it is mainly the outside edge that needs to be adjusted.
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6
Begin by cradling your baby in the same arm as the rings are on, use your opposite
hand to open the pouch and gently place your baby into the pouch area, ensuring your
baby’s head is clear of the rings. Continue to hold your baby whilst you adjust the
sling. Larger babies may need to be carried in the nursing cradle hold position i.e. with
their head at the opposite end from the rings (see later pictures for nursing position).
