For centuries people have used the simplest of tools to carry and nurse their children. The ring sling is a specially designed fabric with two rings that holds your baby while keeping it warm and comfortable. It can hold the child in the prone, sitting and nursing positions; you change the baby's position by adjusting the length and tightness of the fabric with the rings. Ring clings come in a variety of colors and sizes.
Step 1
Place the sling over your head and rest the rings in the corsage position with the tail hanging down the front.
Step 2
Tighten the sling so that there is only enough room to slide your baby into the sling.
Step 3
Position the baby upright on your chest with its stomach touching your chest with its legs bent so that its bottom is lower than its knees. Spread the fabric from at least the babies knees to its shoulders. There should be fabric between your stomach and the baby.
Step 4
Tighten the fabric by bringing any excess to the front and then pull the top edge of the sling up across your body.
Step 5
Tighten the bottom by bringing the outside rail to the side. This is done by pulling away form the body.
Tips and Warnings
- Younger infants may want to have their feet tucked under the fabric at first. For a video of how to put on the ring sling on, see the Resources section.
