How to Put an Infant in an Over-the-Shoulder Baby Holder

Baby-wearing provides comfort and warmth to infants while providing parents with an opportunity to get extra errands done while remaining close to their baby. An over-the-shoulder baby sling is a common carrier used, particularly for holding young babies in the cradle hold. The infant sling can also be used in a variety of holds as the baby grows older. This includes the hip hold and the kangaroo hold, which are possible as the baby is able to support the weight of his own head.

The Cradle Hold

• 1

  Create a secure pouch by pulling one side of the sling against your chest.

• 2

  Open the pouch with one hand while supporting the baby with the other hand.

• 3

  Place the baby into the sling with his head on the side that is higher on the chest. Make sure that the baby's entire body is placed safely inside of the pouch.

• 4

  Continue supporting the baby with your hand while checking that the pouch is safe, secure and tightened as much as possible. Most babies are comfortable held tightly in the sling against the body.

The Kangaroo Carry

• 1

  Put on your baby holder and open it as a pouch with one hand as you would with the cradle hold.

• 2

  Place your baby sitting up in the sling, feet crossed.

• 3

  Tighten the baby sling to ensure that it is safe and secure.

The Front Carry

• 1

  Open the sling into a pouch as in the previous two holds.

• 2

  Slide the baby into the pouch sideways, allowing her feet to come through the bottom. The fabric should tuck snugly underneath her knees.

• 3

  Cover the child's shoulders with the top of the pouch for added safety.

• 4

  Tighten the sling as necessary until it is secure.

The Hip Carry

• 1

  Slide your infant into the pouch and sit him on your hip. His legs should come out of the fabric on each side, with the fabric tucked snugly under his knees.

• 2

  Pull the top of the sling so that it is sitting right below the infant's arms. The top can be pulled over the child's shoulders for added safety.

• 3

  Secure the sling in place by tightening it.