Ring-A-Ding Baby Slings is not responsible for the safety of your child. Only you can be responsible for your own child's safety. Please follow the guidelines below for safe babywearing.
Always use common sense when wearing your baby. Never wear your baby while biking, running, rollerblading, skateboarding, skiing, ice skating, or any other vigorous activity that could cause you to fall on your baby while in the ring sling. Any activity that could cause your baby to bounce while in your ring sling should also be avoided.
Ring-A-Ding Baby Slings do not contain harnesses or seat belts of any kind. You must be mindful of Baby's position and safety while wearing your baby.
Always inspect your sling prior to use for loose threads, frayed edges, holes, or worn spots. Pay special attention to the fabric and seams around the rings, as this is what supports your baby while being worn. Your sling should wear well, and last through several children if cared for gently and laundered according to the instructions provided.
When first using your sling, practice over a soft surface, such as a couch or bed. Until you are comfortable using your sling, keep a hand on your baby's bum. Always keep a hand on your baby when bending (again, the common sense thing). Also, when first trying out your sling, use it for short periods of time when your baby is newly changed, well-fed, and rested. A tired, hungry, wet baby is much less likely to enjoy his or her sling.
Keep in mind that you have an extra bump on your body while wearing your baby. Be especially careful when walking through doorways, between bookshelves, in stores, on buses, on subways, or through any other area where you may bump your baby.
Baby's knees must ALWAYS be higher than his/her bum in order to safely sit in a sling. It is the high knees that create the seat for the baby. If Baby's knees are lower than his/her bum, you are relying on friction to keep him/her in the sling. This is DANGEROUS! High knee position is also important for proper hip development. Please keep an eye on Baby's knees.
When wearing newborns or small infants, please keep their legs and feet inside the sling. This can be accomplished by putting them in the "froggy" position (basically the same position they were in in your tummy). Arms should be inside the sling as well with small infants. This will keep them cozy, comfy, and safe.
When carrying your smaller baby in the cradle position, please be aware of your baby's head position. Baby's chin should not be touching his/her chest, as this could possibly cause suffocation of your baby. Likewise, be sure there is no fabric or any other object/substance covering your baby's face, mouth, or nose. Always be sure that there is always adequate airflow for your baby.
For more information on safe babywearing, please visit www.thebabywearer.com . This is a fantastic resource for learning and sharing, and invaluable when first using your new sling.