Baby Wearing
Our second son reminded us that babies are in need a lot of attention. Did you know that there is a great way you can have your baby with your all day, hands free? Imagine you being able to cook, shop, clean, and play with your other children all while you baby is safely snuggled up against you. Well you can do that and more with the art of baby wearing.
Most people have seen the large backpack carriers that used to be very popular, but babies can now be worn in lots of different positions using several kinds of popular carriers.
There are many different types of carriers that you can get. The kind of carrier you want depends on how you want to carry your baby. There are tons of different choices; so research before you decide which kind you want.
Being worn in a sling is good for your baby. Here are just a few benefits your baby gains by being worn during the day:
- Did you know that most babies cry less when they’re being worn; up to 50% less. This is
because they’re always close to mom. They tend to be less bored bcause they are constantly getting new
images to process and understand, so they’re less bored - Babies who are worn by their moms tend to form a stronger bond with her; this is because they always feel safe and secure near her.
- The constantly changing stimuli when being carried help stimulate your baby’s brain and promote neural development.
- Being able to feel mom’s heart beat and body functioning helps the baby’s biorhythms develop faster. This means they get on a schedule faster and easier
Baby wearing is not only great for your [tag-cat]baby[/tag-cat]; it’s great for you too.
- Wearing your child gives you the comfort of having them there with the convenience of being able to use both your arms.
- You get a great weight-bearing workout from carrying the extra weight.
- With a [tag-tec]baby[/tag-tec] sling, you can breastfeed your child without using your hands.
- You don’t have to haul around and annoying stroller or car seat when you’re out.
- Being with your baby all the time helps you learn their normal cues. Then you can anticipate when they’ll need to be fed, changed, or cuddled.
While baby slings and carriers are considered safe for you and your child, there are some precautions you should take.
- If you carry the baby on your hip or to one side, change sides and directions regularly so you don’t cause yourself back and hip problems.
- Practice with a doll, [tag-ice]teddy bear[/tag-ice], before you start carrying your child. This will help you learn to watch their head and to take other precautions to keep them from being injured.
- Make sure you’re using a carrier or sling that is appropriate for the age of your child and the way you carry them.
- Don’t wear your baby while in the car; they should be in an appropriate car seat.
If done safely and properly, wearing you baby in a sling or carrier can be a great way to bond with them, comfort them, and get all your chores done all at the same time.
What is baby wearing and what are the main benefits for my baby?
Baby wearing means carrying your baby in a soft sling or carrier against your body throughout the day. Babies who are worn tend to cry up to 50% less because they feel close to mom. The constantly changing sights and sounds stimulate brain development, and feeling mom’s heartbeat helps the baby’s biorhythms develop faster — meaning baby gets on a feeding and sleeping schedule more quickly. It also builds a stronger bond between baby and mom.
What types of baby carriers are available?
There are many options today, from traditional ring slings to structured soft-sided carriers, wrap carriers, and hip carriers. Each works differently depending on how you prefer to hold your baby and what developmental stage baby is in. Research the options before deciding — the right carrier for a newborn may be quite different from what works at six months. The most important thing is that the carrier fits both you and your baby safely.
What safety precautions should I take with a baby carrier or sling?
A few important things to keep in mind: always use a carrier designed for your baby’s age and size; never wear your baby in the car (baby must be in a proper car seat for any ride); if you carry baby on one hip, switch sides regularly to protect your back. Practice with a doll or stuffed animal first so you get comfortable supporting the head and adjusting the fit before using it with your baby.
What are the benefits of baby wearing for the mother?
Baby wearing keeps your baby close and content while freeing both your hands to cook, shop, care for older children, or get chores done. Many slings allow you to breastfeed hands-free. Carrying the extra weight is a gentle workout. And being with your baby throughout the day helps you learn their hunger and tiredness cues quickly, so you can anticipate their needs before the crying starts.
About the author
Maya Bennett
Meet Maya Bennett Maya Bennett is a pregnancy and parenting writer and a mom of two. After navigating two very different pregnancies of her own — and years spent reading, researching, and trading stories with other expectant parents — she fell in love with helping families feel ready for what’s ahead. At More4Kids, Maya turns the big questions and quiet worries of pregnancy into warm, practical guidance, from the first positive test through the tender early days with a newborn. She believes every parent-to-be deserves clear answers and a little reassurance along the way.
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