Statement: Call to Expand Access to Babywearing Services
IBCICC Daily Board
International Baby Carrier & Infant Contact Consultant Foundation
It is with profound sorrow that we address the tragic loss of 7-week-old Jimmy Alderman, which occurred in the United Kingdom in October 2023. We extend our deepest condolences to his family during this unimaginably difficult time, as the explosion of news from the Inquisition has brought this tragedy back to the forefront for them.
We commend Jimmy’s family for their courage in sharing their story, bringing attention to the importance of babywearing safety, and advocating for greater awareness to prevent similar tragedies. Their efforts have amplified an essential conversation and inspired action within the global community. Just as they will never forget Jimmy, neither shall we.
Reflections on the Incident
Jimmy’s passing resulted from positional asphyxia while being breastfed in a baby carrier. The TICKS guidelines were not fully met and cannot be met while breastfeeding and babywearing. Tragically, the lack of sufficient public information and detailed safety guidance regarding breastfeeding in carriers contributed to this outcome. The coroner’s report highlights the urgent need for more precise and accessible guidance for parents and caregivers.
Positional hypoxia or asphyxia is not a risk unique to babywearing; it can occur in any situation where an infant’s posture compromises their airway. When a baby’s back slumps and their head presses against their chest, such as in car seats, strollers, cribs, baby bouncers, and carriers, the airway may become obstructed, limiting oxygen supply. Equally concerning is the risk posed when a baby’s head falls backward or to the side, potentially impeding the airway. These dangers are particularly significant for infants under four months of age, as their developing neck and back muscles are not yet strong enough to reposition themselves safely. Vigilant monitoring and attention to positioning are essential in all caregiving contexts.
Babywearing, a global cultural practice rooted in centuries of caregiving traditions, has become an indispensable tool for modern parents worldwide, offering remarkable support to the developing infant, while also fostering close bonds and secure attachments. Over time, the tools and techniques of babywearing have evolved to align with contemporary lifestyles and safety standards. Since 2015, the International Baby Carrier & Infant Contact Consultant Foundation (IBCICC) has championed the practice of infant carrying as a vital cultural and developmental practice, enhancing the well-being of babies, families, and caregivers worldwide. Central to this mission is recognizing the critical role of trained babywearing consultants, whose deep knowledge and skills are essential for guiding families in safe and effective carrying practices. Unfortunately, the importance for this specialized education is often misunderstood, leading to gaps in knowledge and preventable risks. By prioritizing professional guidance, organizations can help families fully realize the benefits of babywearing while ensuring the highest levels of safety, comfort, and connection.
Lessons for the Global Community
As the daily board of IBCICC, we bring together medical, doctoral, babywearing, and safety experts with decades of experience. This tragedy has further galvanized our efforts to improve the accessibility and effectiveness of babywearing education. We are learning from this incident. It teaches us about gaps in parental and caregiver understanding, and this will help us as we refine and improve our recommendations. It is clear that the current TICKS guideline, while foundational, is no longer sufficient to address the complexities of modern babywearing practices, such as this article.
We commend efforts within the UK to amplify awareness and education around safe babywearing. We urge governments, healthcare systems, and babywearing manufacturers worldwide to prioritize partnerships with babywearing schools and consultants to create public education campaigns and establish standards that address these safety and accessibility issues.
Recommendations for the Future
- Expand Public Education: Develop widespread and culturally responsive resources for parents and caregivers, addressing safe babywearing and the specific risks of breastfeeding in carriers.
- Enhance Industry Standards: Manuals for certified products should include feeding guidelines and emphasize the role of babywearing consultants.
- Promote Accessibility: Train and employ certified babywearing consultants in healthcare systems, hospitals, and community centers.
Practical Advice for Parents
- Ensure the baby’s face remains visible at all times and is not covered by fabric.
- When breastfeeding in a carrier, particularly for infants under four months old, support the baby’s head with your hand.
- Continuously monitor the baby’s position and breathing while breastfeeding in the carrier.
- After breastfeeding, return the baby to a secure, upright position and properly tighten the carrier.
- If the baby has any health conditions, consult a physician and a babywearing consultant.
A Call to Action
We hope to honor Jimmy’s memory and his parents' courage by continuing to work tirelessly worldwide to advocate for accessible and supportive babywearing education. We call on stakeholders across the globe to join us in building a safer environment for all families and ensure that no family has to endure such a loss again. For recommendations, partnership, research, and educational opportunities, please contact us at [email protected].