WhatsApp: 07760792394
What is it?
​
Babywearing, the practice of carrying your baby on your body using a sling or carrier, is deeply rooted in cultural traditions spanning countless societies and generations. This age-old practice offers a multitude of benefits for both parent and child, including:
​
keeping your baby calm
reducing crying
promotes attachment
promotes healthy physical development
helps parents cope with having a new baby!
Why is it a useful parenting tool?
Babies are instinctively wired to seek closeness and security with their parents, a fundamental survival mechanism ingrained in their biology. They lack the cognitive awareness to distinguish between being left alone in a safe environment versus a potentially perilous one (Sabretooth tiger anyone?!). Consequently, it's not uncommon for infants to resist being put down, seeking constant closeness to their caregivers.
For parents, this incessant need for closeness can be overwhelming and exhausting. However, wearing your baby in a carrier or sling can provide a practical solution. By keeping your baby close and secure against your body, you fulfill their innate desire for closeness while maintaining mobility and productivity. As carry mammals, human babies are naturally inclined to be carried rather than left alone, mirroring the bond shared by many mammalian species.
​
Carrying your baby allows you to tend to daily tasks or care for other children while keeping your infant content and reassured. Additionally, it eliminates the hassle of manoeuvring a pram through narrow spaces. Furthermore, wearing your baby facilitates convenient feeding opportunities, whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, without interrupting your activities.
However, it's essential to prioritize self-care and avoid overexertion, particularly during the early postpartum period. Remember, the housework can wait – your baby's wellbeing and your own are the top priorities.
What is available?
There are many different options for you to choose from, and you may find that you have a different carrier for a different purpose. But some of the available options include: (not an exhaustive list)
Stretchy options, like a Close Caboo, or stretchy wrap. These are good for little babies, and an introduction to wearing your baby.
Ring Slings, which are worn over one shoulder. These can suit all ages.
Structured carriers, like ones with straps and buckles. These often have a weight range.
Woven Wraps, which are a long piece of fabric that can be worn in many different ways and is suitable for all ages.
Mei tai, a combination of a back panel with soft straps (often made from woven wrap fabric), which may have a weight range.
Further information
Have a look at these important extra resources for your baby wearing journey.
