Sunday, February 27, 2011

Belated updates on CPSC news

I've been a bad blogger. I blame...ummmmm...homeschooling...my kids...busy business stuff...OK, Me. There's been so many things going on with none getting the full attention they deserve that I just realized I haven't updated this blog in months.

I'm sorry.

So, here's the scoop:

With a lot of hard work by the BCIA and support from babywearers concerned about not only the safety of carriers available to parents in North America but also the message that the safest place for a baby is close to it's mother, the CPSC has not issued any new recalls. In fact, in November they issued a statement indicating that they will be aiming for more education regarding babywearing safety instead of recalls. The Babywearing Institute and Dr. Evelyn Kirkilionis - preeminent babywearing researcher in Germany - are working with the CPSC on a babywearing education campaign. The BCIA has also issued a statement that they have pledged to work for this as well.

While this is great news and a great step by the CPSC, I still do not agree with the positioning recommendations illustrated in their November statement. Please remember to keep your baby in a vertical (upright) position in a carrier that supports their natural spread-squat position for optimal hip and spine development. The cradle carry position illustrated in the CPSC statement (and on many websites and manufacturer's instructions) is NOT an ideal position, puts a baby at too great a risk for potential positional asphyxia and does not support the hips/spine in the healthiest position possible. Proper positioning in a good carrier along with the education to understand what this is are key.

If you're unsure about any of the information you've found recently or if you're unsure how to use or choose a carrier for your little one, please feel free to contact me or a Certified Babywearing Educator in your area.

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