Held: Baltimore 2025

Beyond carrier deep dives, the HELD: Baltimore series digs into Functional Babywearing.

Together, we'll explore how different in-arm and carrier-based holds shape a baby’s center of gravity, engage the posterior chain, and influence bone and muscle development at each stage.

We'll examine the physical impact on caregivers throughout the first year. Discussing complex case studies and how various in-arm holds might impact the dyad.

Attendees leave ready to offer anticipatory guidance that evolves as babies grow and caregivers’ needs shift.

*Facilitators listed below.


Facilitators

Joanna McNeilly
CBWI, CBE, CLC, CKCP
Founder, Center for Babywearing Studies
Austin Rees
IBCLC, LMT, CST
Nourish and Align
Sharon Dongarra
DC
Thrive Chiropractic
Erin Eberle
PT, DPT
Erin Eberle Physical Therapy

What We’ll Explore Together in Baltimore


  • In-arm carrying strategies for comfort and development, why educating on in-arm carrying is essential for caregivers, and how to implement it into your work.
  • Carrier Lab to quickly and efficiently experience a range of buckle carriers across different body shapes and sizes, with in-depth discussion on fit and adjustments.
  • Gain perspective on Functional Babywearing and how this approach can be applied to support the caregiving structure and strengthen your practice. Such as:
    • Biomechanics, torticollis, tension patterns, resistance, and common caregiver concerns
    • How babywearing intersects with feeding, regulation, and sensory needs
  • Prenatal conversations and anticipatory guidance around carrying
  • Peer support, collaboration, and why this work matters

Baltimore Prelim Schedule

(Exact flow may shift—but the awareness stays on point.)

8:30 AM Welcome
9:00 AM Skills Lab: Holding Mechanics (In-Arm vs Carrier)
10:15 AM Break + Movement Pause
10:30 AM Skills Lab: Load Transfers, Alignment & Core Pressure
12:15 PM Lunch & Peer Conversation
1:15 PM Carriers Lab: Different Bodies, Different Fit & Issues
3:00 PM Break + Movement Pause
3:15 PM Complex Cases: Multiple Concurrent Issues
4:15 PM Integration, Action Planning, Discussion
5:00 PM Wrap-Up + Photo

Who is HELD For?

Babywearing educators PT/OTs Lactation consultants Perinatal therapists Chiropractors Doulas Pediatricians/Nurses Midwives Anyone supporting infant carrying