Front Cross Carry is a fabulous option for older babies. Generally once baby has good neck and upper torso control you can use this carry.
It's main pro's are;
- You can pre-tie it and the pop baby in and tighten around them. Likewise you can loosen to take baby back out without untying. Making this a very practical carry because you can pre-tie before you leave the house or before you drive your car … avoiding the need to tie near muddy puddles when you reach your destination. It's also a great option for toddlers who are "up and down" a lot as you don't have to keep retying it every time they want to come back up.
- Secure cross between babies legs means this carry is great for older babies who like to straighten their legs and try to stand up in the sling. Or those that "bounce" in the sling. The material between their legs feels really secure and means they can't "pop" or lose their seat.
- Supportive band of fabric around your lower back really helps distribute baby's growing weight and can feel very comfortable
- It is easy for older babies to get their arms out and have a good look around - great for "nosy" babies.
It's main con's are
- It's not great for babies who really want to lean out. The way the material runs across baby's back means that a baby who is determined to lean back can often work the material down to a point where it no longer feels safe. You can try twisting the material (as shown in the video below) and this often helps tighten the top up and keep it feeling secure. It's definitely worth trying but if your baby really wants to lean, but trust your instinct if this carry just doesn't feel right. Instead Front Wrap Cross Carry or Kangaroo Carry often work better for those who want to lean!
- It doesn't work well for younger babies as the cross does open their legs wide and doesn't offer the best neck support. Consequently, I don't typically recommend this carry until baby has a strong neck and upper back and is naturally spreading their legs wide around you when you hold them in arms. Around the same time you might feel comfortable supporting them in arms on your hip. Instead for younger babies or for those wanting a snugglier carry the closely related Front Double Hammock carry is worth exploring.
Here's how to do it;
Wrap shown is an Ali Dover Dream in size 6 which is my base size. There are variations of this carry that allow you to use shorter wraps - a knotless finish that will work with a base -1 and a short variation that will work with a base -2 or 3. And you can find more info on woven wrap sizes here.
If you are struggling with this or any other carry please do get in touch. I can go through it with you step by step and provide real time feedback (whether online via Zoom or in person) and really help flatten the learning curve and ensure your 100% confident going forward.
-Madeleine
