Deep Seat in a Ring Sling

What is a deep seat?

A ‘deep seat’ is a position that holds baby’s knees higher than their bum.  Simply put, this deep spread squat encourages a natural curvature of the developing spine.

All Sakura Bloom carriers are designed to support baby in this position for spine and hip development. Today we're digging into how to get a great seat in our first love - Ring Slings!

Ring Sling Deep Seat: Legs-Out

Legs out can be appropriate from birth on. Before the sling goes on, hold your baby on your chest - Do their legs naturally tuck in? Do they stretch out?

Thinking legs-out? Ok let's get started! Put your baby down in a cozy spot nearby, and put the sling on. (Click to watch how to do that if it’s your first time!)

Now prep your sling: You want there to be enough room for the baby to fit in, without too much of the sling is hanging off you. Less adjustments later = an easier time getting comfy.

Now, make sure the rings are high, just under your collarbone. Where the baby sits on the sling, gather it together to form a bundle you can hold in one hand. This is where your baby will sit. (A lot of people call this a rope). When you bring the baby on you, you can sit their bum on this gathered fabric like in the photo above. Pause here to check for positioning!

You want to see their knees and bum make the M shape, with bum below the knees in a little wrap-around squat to your body. If needed adjust one leg at a time while supporting baby.

At this point, you can pull the fabric up around them and tighten. 

But wait! My baby's legs didn't want to unfurl. I think I need Legs-In!

Legs-In: A Deep Seat is still Important

With a small baby or newborn, legs-in might be comfier for them. The key to this carry is to make sure their legs are in a froggy-like position that is easy on their development.

Prep the Ring Sling on you with the rings high, the sling adjusted so it’s got just enough room for your baby to go inside, and a little pocket where their legs will eventually end up.

Once the sling is prepped, bring your baby on you and slowly lower them into the pocket. As they slide down, their legs should form a squat that wraps around you, and their bum will eventually be the first thing to settle in the sling.

Then, draw the sling up around both of you. Once baby is secure, you can lean forward to let the sling cradle their body. Think you need more of a squat? Reach your hands in and gently grip their thighs and guide their knees up and out just gently. You may even feel baby naturally settle in to place.

Do you have an easier time learning with video tutorials? Click here to watch how to do a newborn legs-in carry!