Most slings, including the Maya Wrap and the Over the Shoulder Baby Holder, allow you to wear your baby in a variety of ways. I have a page on each of the following positions, but this page offers a synopsis of how to babywear. To view the step-by-step directions, with pictures, of each babywearing position, please click on the picture or the name of the position.

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Newborn and Older

Pull the inner fabric up on your chest, and the outer fabric out to make a deep pocket. While supporting your baby's head, place your baby down in the pocket with her head away from the rings. Pull on the tail to tighten the fabric. Make sure your baby is secure before letting go. When wearing the Maya Wrap, you can drape the tail over your shoulder for extra coverage.

Reclining Position

Newborn - Six Months

To allow your newborn to sit up more and see the world, follow the same directions for the Cradle-Hold Position, except place your baby’s head on the same side of the sling as the rings.

Newborn and Older

Pull the excess fabric from behind you around in front of you. Place your baby down tummy-to-tummy with you, making sure there's no fabric between you and your baby. Make sure the bottom rail is tucked up around your baby’s legs for support. If your baby lacks head control, bring the top fabric up around your baby’s shoulders, neck, and head enough to support him. If your baby is older, make sure the fabric reaches at least halfway up his back. Tighten the fabric to ensure a secure ride for your baby.

Kangaroo Carry

4 Months - 12 Months

Pull the bottom fabric up against your chest and the top fabric out away from your body as if you were going to use the Cradle-Hold or Reclining position. Then hold your baby facing away from you, and cross her legs Indian-style. Place your baby down in the pouch. As always, make sure your baby is secure by tightening the fabric.

Hip Carry

6 Months and Older

Pull the excess fabric from behind you around in front of you. Then place your baby on your hip. Make sure the fabric reaches up near your baby’s knees and at least mid-way up your baby’s back. You can pull the fabric all the way up to his shoulders, if you so desire.

Back Carry

1 Year and Older

Put your sling on with the rings either on or just behind your shoulders. Place your child in the sling just as you would were you planning on using the Hip Carry. Tighten the sling to make sure your child is secure. You might also want to tuck your child’s back arm in for added security. Slide your baby around to your back, so that the rings end up in the right position. Until you are comfortable using this position, please have a friend help you ensure your child is secure. This position should only be used with a cooperative child.

In All Positions

Make sure the rings are in front of your shoulder on or approximately on your collar bone with the tail hanging down in front. Age recommendations are approximate; please use your judgment and wear your child in the positions that suit both of you best.

Disclaimer: The Wigley family is in no way liable for any injury or other consequence that may occur from following these directions. Please use common sense and judgement when wearing your child. Follow all manufacturer’s directions!