S M A L L E N C Y C L O P A E D I A O F C A R R Y I N G
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“ S A F E T Y G R I P ”
When applying the “safety grip” your baby is lying on your shoulder, well supported from all
sides, before you place him/her in the half tied or pre-tied sling. One arm of your baby is lying
behind your neck, the other is placed on your shoulder (like the position when your baby is
about to burp). The four fingers of your hand that hold your child are placed widely spread on
his/her back. Your thumb is near your baby’s chest. Should your baby suddenly stretch out –
like some babies do – you have perfect control due to this grip.
“ R O U N D E D B A C K ”
It is only in the course of development of a human being that the double S-form of an adult’s
spine is built by muscle tension and body posture. In the beginning, the baby’s back is rounded
and should be well supported in this position.
“ S P R E A D - S Q U A T P O S I T I O N ”
You can see this “spread-squat position” as soon as you pick your baby up – and sometimes
even when talking to him/her. Your baby actively assists being carried by moving his/her legs
upwards and slightly spreading them, e.g. when he/she sits on your hips. This is an evolutionary
adaptation of children to “being taken along” and is also designated as “spread-squat reaction”.
This is no reflex. In the “spread-squat position” your baby’s bum should always be lower than
his/her knees. a good “spread-squat position” supports the hip maturation of your child. The
head of the hip joint lies ideally in the acetabulum. Your movements when carrying will care for
a good blood circulation of this area. This also supports the hip maturation.
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I n S T R u C T I O n D e n O u a g e
R I N G - S L I N G
