Babywearing Tips for Work-at-Home Parents
If there's one thing that has saved my sanity (and my job!) after having a second baby, it's babywearing.
Simply put, babywearing is the practice of carrying your baby or toddler close to your body using a carrier or sling. It’s an age-old tradition found across cultures, and today, there are countless types of carriers and carrying styles designed to suit every parent’s lifestyle and comfort.
For remote working moms like me, I’ve learned a few helpful ways to make babywearing fit seamlessly into our daily routine.
1. Back carrying is key
Transitioning from front to back carrying made a huge difference in my daily routine. Back carrying gives me a clear line of vision, more freedom to move, and a better sense of balance.
With my hands free and posture improved, I can get more chores done and even work on my computer with ease.
Important tip: As a general rule, especially for beginners, it’s best to start back carrying once your baby can sit unassisted, usually around six months old.
At this stage, your baby has developed enough strength and coordination to help “correct” their posture while being carried on your back.
That said, some experienced babywearers are able to back carry earlier, even from the newborn stage, using a woven wrap and proper techniques. If you’re considering this, make sure to research safe wrapping methods or consult a certified babywearing educator.
2. Use a waistless baby carrier
For parents with short torsos, the waistband of a soft-structured carrier can feel bulky or uncomfortable, especially when sitting down for long stretches
What worked for me was to use waistless baby carriers. These styles tie or wrap around the body without a thick waistband, allowing for a more flexible fit and better comfort when seated.
Some examples of waistless baby carriers include the following:
- Onbuhimo: Japanese-style waistless baby carrier meant for high back carries. It has shoulder straps and a fabric body panel but no waistband, making it ideal for toddlers who can already sit unassisted.
- Woven wrap: A long, woven piece of fabric that can be tied in countless ways. For back carries, styles like the Tibetan, Buleria, or Candy Cane Chestbelt finishes (to name a few) provide secure support without the need for a waistband.
- Meh dai (mei tai): An East Asian–inspired carrier that combines a fabric body panel with long straps that tie around your shoulders and waist. When back carrying, you can use the same waistless tying techniques or finishes as with woven wraps for better comfort. Additionally, while some meh dai versions have light waist padding, apron-style tying (where the waistband is worn around the torso, well, like an apron) makes it more comfortable for sitting.
3. Maximize nap times for deep-focus tasks
One thing I realized especially when your baby reaches the toddler stage is that they get extra restless. When I sit down to work, my toddler is usually happy to be carried on my back for a few minutes—until he starts getting bored or fussy.
That’s why I plan my workday around nap times. Those quiet stretches while my little one naps in the carrier are my “power hours” for deep-focus tasks.
Important tip: If your baby tends to nap longer while being worn, it's important to monitor their breathing and posture, especially when carrying on your back. A few things to watch out for:
- Airway: Ensure your baby’s chin isn’t tucked tightly into their chest. Their face should be clear, with enough space for airflow at all times.
- Position: Your baby’s back should form a gentle “C” curve, with knees higher than their bottom in the “M” position for healthy hip alignment.
- Temperature: Check for overheating—your body warmth plus layers of fabric can make your baby sweat quickly.
- Movement: If your baby stirs, fusses, or changes breathing rhythm, pause your work to check on them immediately.
A quick mirror check, camera view, or reflective surface nearby can help you keep an eye on your baby’s position without having to twist around.
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Working from home while being the primary caregiver for your baby is a challenge in itself, but babywearing can be a great tool to make things easier. Good luck!
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