Introduction:
What is the Facing
Out Position?
The facing out position, also known as facing outward, is a front carry position where the baby is held with their back to the wearer, allowing them to explore the world in front of them.
This position differs from traditional babywearing, where the baby faces the wearer.
Is Facing Outward Position a Controversy?
Indeed, the front-facing outcarry position is a hot topic within the babywearing community, sparking debates among manufacturers, consultants, and parents alike.
Our journey through this topic begins with our own experience.
Our Perspective on Facing the World Carry:
With over a decade of experience in the babywearing world and a team comprising two babywearing consultants, we've seen the evolution of baby carriers.
In the past, we were skeptical about front outward-facing babywearing due to ergonomic concerns. Here's why:
In the early days, many baby carriers did not support an ergonomic hip-healthy position, resulting in issues such as improper leg support, crotch support, and an inability for the baby to maintain a healthy hip joint position.
The pelvis did not tilt, forcing the baby's spine into an unnatural straight posture.
However, times have changed, and new-generation carriers now offer ergonomic front-facing out positions. This evolution has led us to change our stance on this matter.
In 2020, we consider the front-facing out position safe and ergonomic when certain rules are followed.
Who Opposes the Facing Out Position?
It's crucial to identify who still opposes front facing out babywearing. These opposing voices include:
1. Manufacturers and sellers who do not offer this particular carry position.
2. Bloggers who rely on outdated arguments, often based on photos of old baby carriers.
3. Extremists in the babywearing community who staunchly advocate for baby wraps as the only ergonomic carrier.
Who Supports the Facing Out Position?
On the flip side, several authoritative voices endorse the front-facing out position:
1. The International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) recognizes baby carriers that encourage healthy hip development.
2. Many babywearing experts, including us, endorse the
practice.
When is the Facing Out Position Ergonomic?
Seating a baby ergonomically in the facing-out position can be slightly more challenging but entirely achievable with the right carrier. Here's a checklist for ergonomic outward-facing babywearing:
- - Ensure the baby's legs are properly supported from knee to knee with no dangling.
- - Support the baby's weight with their thighs.
- - Keep the baby's knees higher than their hips.
- - Tilt the baby's pelvis.
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- Maintain a slightly rounded back.
Safety Guidelines for Facing Out Babywearing:
While there is no concrete research indicating harm from facing out babywearing, it's essential to follow safety rules:
- - Ensure your baby has sufficient neck control, typically around 3 months and older.
- - Exercise caution if your baby may have hip dysplasia or hip development concerns.
- - Limit facing out babywearing to shorter periods, as it can be overstimulating.
- - Avoid using the facing out position for napping.
When is it Safe to Carry Your Baby Facing Out?
Around 4-6 months, babies begin to show curiosity and enjoy observing their surroundings. To determine if your baby is ready for the front outward-facing carry, consider the following factors:
- - Your baby's neck should have sufficient strength for head control.
- - Your baby's chin should sit above the top of the baby carrier panel.
Till What Age Can You Carry Facing Outward?
Facing the world babywearing should correlate with your baby's development stage. Typically, this phase starts around 4-6 months and lasts until approximately 9-10 months.
Afterward, babies can turn around to face inward, and back carrying becomes a comfortable option.
Is Facing Outward Babywearing Comfortable?
Yes, it can be comfortable with the right ergonomic carrier designed for this purpose. However, facing outward may feel slightly less comfortable than facing inward, especially with heavier babies, as it places more weight on the back or shoulders.
Top 3 Facing Out Baby Carriers
If you're considering outward-facing babywearing, here are the top three carriers that offer exceptional ergonomic support:
1. Ergobaby Omni 360: Available in two fabric options - All-In-One and Cool Air Mesh All-In-One.
2. Ergobaby 360: Also available in two fabric options - All Positions Baby Carrier and Cool Air Mesh.
3. Tula Explore: Known for its versatility, with a mesh version called Tula Explore Coast Versatile Baby Carrier.
These carriers feature a deep bucket-shaped seat that supports your baby in an ergonomic M-position, with knees higher than the bottom and a tilted pelvis.
Alternatives to Facing the World Position
If you're uncertain about front-facing out babywearing but your little one is curious, consider these alternatives:
1. Front Inward Facing with Hands Out: Allow your baby's arms to extend over the carrier for a better view.
2. Hip Position: Many soft-structured carriers offer a hip position, and you can also use a ring sling for this purpose.
3. Back Carry Position: Once your baby is ready, explore back carrying for a new perspective.
In Conclusion
Front-facing babywearing can be safe and comfortable when done with the right ergonomic carrier and adherence to safety guidelines. It's an exciting phase for curious babies, allowing them to explore the world around them. If you have any questions or seek further guidance on outward-facing babywearing, please feel free to reach out to our experienced consultants. We're here to assist you on this wonderful journey of babywearing.
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