Meghan Markle’s babywearing photo ignited a firestorm—but we’re calling for compassion, instead

[Editor’s note: While Motherly loves seeing and sharing photos of baby Archie and other adorable babies when the images are shared with their parents’ consent, we do not publish pictures taken without a parent’s consent. Since these pictures were taken without Markle’s permission while she was walking her dogs, we’re not reposting them.]

Meghan Markle is a trendsetter for sure. When she wears something the world notices, and this week she was photographed wearing her son Archie in a baby carrier. The important thing to know about the photos is that they show the Duchess out for a walk with her two dogs while wearing Archie in a blue Ergo. She’s not hands-free baby wearing, but rather wearing an Ergo while also supporting Archie with her arm, as the carrier isn’t completely tight.

When British tabloids published the pictures many babywearing devotees and internet commenters offered opinions on how Markle is holding her son in the photo, but as baby gear guru Jamie Grayson notes, “it is none of our business.”

In a post to his Facebook page, Grayson (noted NYC baby gear expert) explained that in the last day or so he has been inundated with hundreds of messages about how Markle is wearing the carrier, and that while he’s sure many who messaged with concerns had good intentions he hopes to inject some empathy into the conversation.

As Grayson points out, these are paparazzi photos, so it was a private moment not meant for world-wide consumption. “This woman has the entire world watching her every move and action, especially now that she and Harry are leaving the umbrella of the royal family, and I honestly hope they are able to find some privacy and peace. So let’s give her space,” he explains, adding that “while those pictures show something that is less than ideal, it’s going to be okay. I promise. It’s not like she’s wearing the baby upside down.”

He’s right, Archie was safe and not in danger and who knows why the straps on Markle’s carrier were loose (maybe she realized people were about to take pictures and so she switched Archie from forward-facing, or maybe the strap just slipped.)

Grayson continues: “When you are bringing up how a parent is misusing a product (either in-person or online) please consider your words. Because tone of voice is missing in text, it is important to choose your words carefully because ANYTHING can be misconstrued. Your good intentions can easily be considered as shaming someone.”

Grayson’s suggestions injected some much-needed empathy into this discourse and reminded many that new parents are human beings who are just trying to do their best with responsibilities (and baby gear) that isn’t familiar to them.

Babywearing has a ton of benefits for parents and the baby, but it can take some getting used to. New parents can research safety recommendations so they feel confident. In Canada, where the pictures in question were snapped, the government recommends parents follow these safety guidelines when wearing infants in carriers:

• Choose a product that fits you and your baby properly.
• Be very careful putting a baby into—or pulling them out of—a carrier or sling. Ask for help if you need it.
• When wearing a carrier or sling, do not zip up your coat around the baby because it increases the risk of overheating and suffocation.
• Be particularly careful when using a sling or carrier with babies under 4 months because their airways are still developing.
• Do not use a carrier or sling during activities that could lead to injury such as cooking, running, cycling, or drinking hot beverages.

Health Canada also recommends parents “remember to keep your baby visible and kissable at all times” and offers the following tips to ensure kissability.

“Keep the baby’s face in view. Keep the baby in an upright position. Make sure the baby’s face is not pressed into the fabric of the carrier or sling, your body, or clothing. Make sure the baby’s chin is not pressed into their chest. Make sure the baby’s legs are not bunched up against their stomach, as this can also restrict breathing. Wear the baby snug enough to support their back and hold onto the baby when bending over so they don’t fall out of the carrier or sling. Check your baby often.”

Meghan Markle is a new mom who was caught off guard during a moment she didn’t expect her baby to be photographed. Every parent (no matter how famous) has a right to privacy for their child and the right to compassion from other parents. If we want people to learn how to safely babywear we can’t shame them for trying.

Mama, if you’ve been shamed for wearing your baby “wrong” don’t feel like you need to stop. Follow the tips above or check in with local baby-wearing groups to get advice and help. You’ve got this.