Question:

Hi,

My daughter who is wheelchair bound is having a baby and we need to find a wheelchair baby carrier? Does such an accessory exist?

Gill

Answer:

Congratulations on becoming a grandparent!

If your daughter uses a wheelchair that doesn’t mean she shouldn’t be able to carry her baby on her wheelchair with her. After all 2 wheels are just as sturdy as 2 legs.

My first choice for baby transport is a front-facing baby carrier. These strap across the front of your chest and hold the baby on your lap. Put your baby in the carrier facing away from you, so that their legs aren’t squashed against your chest. If you prefer to have your baby face you, purchase a carrier that holds your baby in the half-moon or cradle position. This means the baby will lay across your chest, lengthwise across the width of your wheelchair and face up. This cradle-style holder is ideal when your baby is young, but as your baby grows you may need to purchase a front-facing carrier and at this point you may feel more comfortable using one.

When using a baby carrier in a wheelchair there are a few safety considerations, such as:

• Make sure the baby’s head is clear of the wheelchair handles, wheels and any hard or moving parts.
• Make sure your baby is fastened into the carrier snuggly so they can’t stand up on your lap inside the carrier, hit their head or butt your face with their head.
• Keep all carrier fastenings out of baby’s reach, but within your reach.
• Cut any long straps down so that they can’t drag on the floor or get caught up in your wheels.
• Carriers with built-in padding are recommended for all parents – not just wheelchair users. The padding will protect the baby in case you bump into something or lose balance in your chair when your baby is onboard.
• Purchase a brightly colored baby carrier for when you and baby venture outdoors. The contrasting color of your baby carrier will make your baby easily identifiable to everyone.

Baby carriers start at about $50 online.