A picture taken of a Bay area mom shopping with her 5-year-old child in a baby carrier is sparking protests.

The picture shows an older child in a carrier on someone's back.

Allegedly, it was taken by an employee at the Icing Jewelry Store at Citrus Park Mall.

The picture was posted to the employees personal Facebook page, criticizing the person for carrying an older child in the device.

The post was shared on numerous baby wearing media sites, prompting a group of moms who use the carriers to go to the mall as a group to show their support for the practice.

"It's a great bonding time and I guess a good learning experience that we're not lazy, we just love our kids and love to carry them close because they're only little once," said Taylar Sullivan.

Pediatricians said there are legitimate reasons for using the devices.

"We see where even a toddler can feel comforted by being close to a parent," said Dr. Constance Charles-Logan of Westcoast Pediatrics. "They interact more with the environment, they are more able to feel comfortable."

The mom said the employee did post an apology on her Facebook page.

Icing issued a statement that said: "We were appalled by the views expressed by this manager on her personal Facebook account, and her actions were a significant breach of conduct that we take very seriously. Her personal views in no way reflect the views of Icing, and we have taken the necessary appropriate action with the individual."

A spokesperson declined to say exactly what action the company has taken.