When Miss Philippines 2011 Shamcey Supsup-Lee posted a babywearing photo of herself, she probably didn’t think it would lead to an argument.
The picture showed her reflection on a mirror while she took the selfie using her smartphone. Her 2-month old daughter Nyke was in a red baby carrier in front of her tummy. She shared, “Someone wants to go with mommy,” tagged Pognae Philippines (the brand of her carrier) and added the hashtag #babywearing.
A photo posted by Shamcey S. Lee (@supsupshamcey) on
Many of her followers praised her for her beauty, her post-pregnancy figure and for choosing to babywear.
Some were critical
However, there were those who did not support her decision. One user commented that the way the baby’s legs are positioned may lead to bowleggedness (“sakang“). Others expressed concern that the baby might be too young, that her spine might be too soft, and even that the baby might not be able to breathe.
But others answered back
Experienced babywearers were quick to offer their two cents.
To address the issue of bowleggedness, advocates replied that most babies are naturally bowlegged, and that this will self-correct when they are around 3 years old.
Some moms advised Shamcey to use an infant insert together with her soft-structured carrier (SSC). Infant inserts help position babies correctly while they are still too small for their carrier.
LOOK: 17 of the best baby carriers around, according to moms
Many also cited the TICKS acronym that helps moms check if they are babywearing correctly:
- T – Tight
- I – In view at all times
- C – Close enough to kiss: They specifically told her to position her baby higher
- K – Keep chin off the chest
- S – Supported back
Lastly, they encouraged her to join the Babywearing Philippines group on Facebook. The internet and social media have given us easier access to information and support for just these parenting moments and decisions.
Keep your baby close safely
Not just Shamcey, but many other moms who are just learning about babywearing will benefit from the constructive comments. No matter how we choose to keep our babies close, safety is our top priority.
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