Lullaby Baby Carriers Blog

Nursing in a Cuddly Wrap

There are many benefits of breastfeeding, which is why there has been a great increase in the number of breastfeeding moms in recent years. Check out some these breastfeeding benefits to mom and baby:

Breastfeeding, like babywearing, provides a great bonding experience between mom and baby. Because mom is the only one able to feed the baby for at least the first few weeks of life they have more time to bond. The baby’s eyes can only focus about 8-10 inches away, which just happens to be how far from mom’s face they are when breastfeeding. The eye contact, skin to skin contact, and early interaction provide a wonderful bonding experience.  Fortunately, whether your breastfeeding or not, this bonding can be achieved to a large degree by using a baby wrap, or sling (great news for Dads!).

The colostrum or “first milk” for the baby is very important for health and immune development. Colostrum is produced in the first few days after giving birth and is more condensed than regular breast milk. The baby gets a lot of nutrients, vitamins and benefits of your immune system in colostrum.  In fact, colostrum is so good for health, it is now available to adults in pill form in some health food stores.

Breastfeeding is better overall for the health of mommy and baby. The baby continues to get nutrients and vitamins that mom takes in everyday, and is able to work up immunities to allergies through mom’s milk. As for mom, her body will go back to normal faster after childbirth by simply breastfeeding. It is a natural process that that helps mom and baby ease into natural health and well being.

In the mother, the uterus goes back to normal faster, shrinking back to its pre-pregnancy size. Because it happens faster there will be some mild cramping, usually felt during nursing sessions.

Many moms lose baby weight faster when they breastfeed. You will burn more calories everyday to keep up with the baby’s diet. You are feeding someone else and maintaining your own body systems so this means the extra calories you burn will help you lose the weight you gained during pregnancy faster than if you were bottle feeding.

Babies often thrive when fed breastmilk. Formula has synthetic vitamins and minerals, made in labs, and they aren’t as healthy as the ones that come from mom. Nothing can replace breast milk, it is naturally one of the most healthy things we can ingest.

Babies also use breastmilk to develop an immune system in early weeks. During the first few months and weeks of baby’s life he or she has no immune system of their own. By breastfeeding they are still using mom’s until they are able to build one of their own. This means less colds, less infections and overall a healthier beginning to life.

Breastfeeding has also been linked to a lower incidence of SIDS. Although scientists aren’t quite sure why, but the numbers show breastfeeding may very well offer protection against this mysterious phenomena.

The saying “breast is best” is still alive after all this time. If you have to formula feed, don’t feel guilty, but if you can breastfeed, even some, it will be completely worthwhile for you and your baby.

Baby Wrap

Your tiny newborn needs constant assurance that you are there for her.  Your presence and your touch reassure her that she is safe and loved. But sometimes carrying a fretful or colicky baby can drain your energy especially if you have other things to do during the day.  The solution?  A baby wrap.

Babies who are frequently carried and cuddled are happier and they grow up confident and independent.  They cry less and are healthier than babies who are not often carried by their parents.  A baby wrap keeps your little one close to your body, where she’s warm and secure and it’s easy to wear, so it is perfect for both of you.

A baby wrap also makes it easier for Dads to bond with their infants because it is no longer scary for them to carry a tiny infant. Yes, some dads are scared of carrying their newborn infants for fear they might harm the precious cargo.  Wrap baby carriers are made from stretchy or non-stretchy material and can be tied to securely support the child in a number of different positions, depending on age and preference.  Because you can adjust the tension and “snugness” of the carrier, you need not worry about dropping the baby.

With a wrap, you can adjust your babywearing style as your child grows older.  For a newborn up to five months old, it is best to carry baby on your front.  In this position, newborns will have their knees drawn up. As the child grows older you can adjust the wrap for side or back carrying.

You can wear baby beautifully in multiple ways.  Front, back, facing out, or facing in, you can also carry a child weighing up to 40 lbs.  With the right length of wrap you can carry your bundle of joy in many ways from day one until toddlerhood.

A baby wrap has none of the buckles and rings that can be uncomfortable after long periods of carrying the baby.  It is easy on your shoulders and back and the wide swath of cloth on your shoulders secures the child’s weight.  Wrapped around your torso, their weight is distributed evenly over your hips, making it easier on your back. The long length of cloth gives you a sense of security because you wrap it around your torso and shoulders and tie it to secure its hold on the baby.

Bonding with your baby is one of the tenets of Attachment Parenting and the first step to help your child become well-adjusted. Because she is always with a mobile parent, your child’s primal need to survive is met and she learns to socialize much younger.  Since she is carried all the time in an upright position, the baby’s head will not be at risk of the flattening deformation that can occur with infants who spend a lot of time laying down flat or in a carseat, bouncy chair or stroller.

A baby wrap does not work only for your child’s benefit.  It gives you and your partner more flexibility when caring for your baby and strengthens the bond between you and your child.

If you have a fussy child, you’re probably also exhausted or overwhelmed with constantly trying to please your little one.  You’ve tried everything… the diaper is clean, the tummy is full, the nap was on time, and yet this little person is still irritable… it can be so frustrating.

In my experience there are two things that almost always work.  First, if your child is still a baby, put them into a baby carrier and go about your business.  Something about being so snugly supported and so close to mom, just seems to work wonders.  Let’s face it, your arm strength will only hold out so long before you need to shift him around or put him down.  Babywearing allows them to feel snug and secure and you can wear them for a long time with your hands free to do other things.  Many toddlers love this too.

The second method is going outside.  Just stepping out onto your balcony or front porch to get some fresh air works miracles for fussy kids… and weary parents too!  Of course, you may notice the fussing start up again as soon as you go inside.  In which case, why not put your child in a baby carrier or take him by the hand and go for a walk?  Studies have shown that getting out in nature improves your (and your child’s) emotional wellbeing.

You’ll likely notice that you both feel more relaxed almost immediately.  You’re mind will stop jumping from thought to thought.  Instead of thinking about that project that’s due or that bill you have to pay, or how to stop the baby from fussing, you’ll notice the rabbit sitting in the grass or the strange bird chirping in the tree.  You’ll notice the colors of the leaves on the trees and feel the sunshine on your shoulders or the wind in your hair.  In short, your mind clears and you begin to focus on the present moment.

The same thing happens for children.  Nature walks tend to generate curiosity and a sense of exploration in children.  They wonder what that funny orange moss was or what animal could have made that strange sound. This sense of wonder and curiosity helps them feel a part of something bigger than themselves.  In effect it changes their focus from internal to external and often results in happier kids.

If your children are older, then chances are they’re living extraordinarily busy lives.  Nature walks will help them concentrate and focus on the present. In fact studies have shown that nature walks for children with attention deficit issues were just as effective if not more so than medication to improve their concentration. Get your children interested by pointing out interesting features and encourage them to show you what interests them.

Many physicians and counselors actually prescribe “nature walk therapy” for adults and children to treat depression, stress, high blood pressure and to boost mood.  So it follows that a distressed baby would also be soothed by being in nature.  Nature walks work because nature is a proven method to improve mood and reduce aggression.  Some scientists theorize that sunlight has a chemical effect on mood.

In addition to helping children focus, giving them more self-confidence and boosting their mood, taking a nature walk with your children helps foster the bond between you.  It creates fond memories, lets your child know that you enjoy quiet time with them in nature and gives them an overall appreciation for life.

Babywearing is not new.  It’s not a fad.  Babywearing has been around for hundreds of years and it provides lots of great benefits for both parents and babies.

One obvious benefit is that babies are comforted by being kept in close contact with their mom or dad (or caregiver). Sure, you could put your baby in a stroller, but using a baby carrier allows your baby to be snuggled up to you and enjoy your warmth and familiar smell.  It is less intimidating for them to view the world from there, than from a stroller where they are being pushed towards the unknown and they can’t even see you.  Babies are less likely to cry when you wear them, because they feel content and secure.

Studies have shown that babies who have been “worn” are more likely to develop their communication and social skills faster.  Keeping them close to you allows them to see the expressions on your face and learn about body language.  They often learn to speak faster as well; you more likely to talk with your baby as you go through the day, which will help them to develop faster socially.

Another benefit of babywearing is that your baby is less likely to develop plagiocephaly or ‘flat head syndrome.’  This occurs to babies that spend too much time in strollers or car seats in addition to sleeping on their back. While babies should sleep on their back to prevent SIDS, you need to be careful how they are positioned while they are awake because the baby’s head is so soft.  This can be prevented by using a baby carrier.

Babywearing offers lots of benefits to parents as well.  Wearing your baby allows you to have your hands free, so you can get things done that would otherwise be difficult to do without interruption. When you go out, instead of dealing with that big stroller, you will only have a piece of cloth to keep with you, which easily folds up when you are not using it. You can even breastfeed hands free. Moms also benefit from the closeness of their baby, which can help to alleviate problems with postpartum depression because babies are kept close without having to interact with them all the time.  The bond that is created will benefit both mom and baby in the long run.

So, make sure that you take the time to look into babywearing closely; it may be just what you and your baby need.  For more information, please check out the posts under the babywearing and attachment parenting categories on the right.  Also check out www.babywearinginternational.org.

First time moms are often stumped when shopping for baby carriers.  The problem is — they can get confused with too much information out there.  Here are some tips when shopping for baby slings.

Why Slings?

Smaller babies love to be carried and cuddled close.  It helps to have a sling when there’s no one to mind the baby at home and you have to dash to the nearest store for groceries.  With a baby sling, you don’t have to burden yourself with the pram or stroller, simply put on the sling and place your infant comfortably in it and do your chores.

When traveling, you can pack your baby carrier sling without trouble because it can be slipped into your purse unlike the unwieldy stroller. Anytime you need to do something while baby is with you, simply fish out the sling and there you go.

A sling is a wide swath of durable fabric that is worn across your upper body.  It is supported by a wide shoulder strap, padded or unpadded, and may or may not have rings.  Because it has a loose fit and is usually worn on the front, it is easy to breastfeed your little one discreetly when required.

Because these are usually worn on the front or hip, your child can hear the familiar beat of your heart and feel your reassuring warmth, there will be no crying bouts while you do your chores.  Plus you can check on baby any time because they are right there with you.

Smaller babies are the best candidates for baby carriers slings, but the one you choose should also grow with your child.   An adjustable baby carrier sling provides comfort for a newborn infant until he or she is about two years old; by this time you and your child will be ready for baby backpack carriers, which offer better support for the caregiver with heavier children.

Choosing Your Baby Carrier Sling

Your baby is a fast grower and your choice of sling should grow with your child.  An adjustable baby carrier sling provides comfort for a newborn infant until he or she is approximately two years old.

There are two popular variants available – ring slings and pouch slings – which are also available in stretchy or non-stretchy fabric. Ring slings are great because these are easy to adjust on the fly.  These usually have long tails to allow for different sized adults; it is simply adjusted for a comfortable wear so you and your partner can use the same ring sling to carry your baby.   A ring sling also allows for reclining while carrying baby hence a favorite for nursing mothers.

A pouch sling has no tail but instead is more like a sash making a complete loop with durable fabric.  This is worn over one shoulder and the sash is folded over to form a pouch.  There are no hard clips, rings, or buckles and there is no need to tie the pouch.  This sling is perfect for a small newborn to a toddler.  You can easily use it in various positions to carry your baby.  Some pouch slings are invisibly adjustable, which allows you to share the sling with a different sized caregiver, and to adjust it as your child grows.  A pouch sling is about as compact and simplistic as a baby carrier can get; a truly minimalist option with lots of benefits.  It’s sleek, simple and often made with stunning, fashionable fabrics.

Whatever your choice of baby carriers slings, make sure it is comfortable for both baby and you.

Someone asked me the other day, how babywearing can contribute to better behaviour as the child gets older.  I knew enough to say that when the parent and child have a solid, loving bond (which using a baby carrier helps to build), the child feels safer, respected, and better able to cope with difficulties that come up.

Today, I decided to try to find some research to back that up and the first thing I came across was this article.  So I thought I’d post it for all to see.

I’d love to hear your comments!

Close Ties Between Parents and Babies Benefit Young Children

ScienceDaily (Feb. 7, 2008) — Having close ties with parents is obviously good for young children, but what does that really mean? It means that the children are better able to control their own behavior by showing patience, deliberation, restraint, and even maturity. That’s the finding of a new study conducted by researchers at the University of Iowa.

The researchers looked at 102 mostly white families–mothers, fathers, and babies–who had volunteered for the study from the time the children were 7 months old until they were almost 4 and a half years old. Repeated observations were carried out in the families’ homes and in a laboratory. In the first two years, the researchers observed how parents and children related to each other, particularly whether they were in sync, picked up on each other’s cues, communicated well, and enjoyed each other’s company. In short, they gauged whether the parents and children had developed a close, positive, reciprocal, cooperative, and mutually responsive relationship.

When the children were 4 years and 4 months old, the researchers observed how the children responded when they were told not to do something by a parent when the parent then left the room. They also observed how the children did on tasks that called for self-regulation–patience, deliberation, restraint, and maturity of impulses–such as being asked to hold a small piece of candy in their mouths without eating it.

The study found that children who had developed a close, positive, reciprocal, and mutually responsive relationship with their mothers in the first two years of their lives did much better in both respects–responding to their mothers’ requests not to do something and regulating their own behavior–than children who hadn’t developed such ties.

The researchers also explored how mutually responsive relationships between mothers and children worked. When mothers and babies develop this closeness in the first two years, the study found, mothers don’t need to use forceful discipline later to get their children to do what they ask and refrain from other behaviors. And in turn, subtle control on the part of the mothers leads to better, more compliant, and more self-regulated behavior.

Some of these findings were similar for fathers and children. Mutually responsive, positive relationships between fathers and children in the first two years of life also were associated with children’s better performance in tasks that called for self-regulation when the children were 4 and a half. However, in contrast to mothers and children, the reasons for the father-child link were less clear. Relationships between fathers and children in general have been studied much less than those between mothers and children, and more research is needed to understand their dynamics.

“Most parents know that when they interact with their infant and young toddler, they are laying important foundations for the child’s future development,” according to Grazyna Kochanska, Stuit Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Iowa and the lead author of the study. “Now we have a better understanding of what that really means. Your investment in building a mutually responsive, positive, close relationship early on will generate considerable payoff several years later.”

Journal reference: Child Development, Vol. 79, Issue 1, Mother-Child and Father-Child Mutually Responsive Orientation in the First Two Years and Children’s Outcomes: Mechanisms of Influence, by Kochanska, G, Aksan, N, Prisco, TR, and Adams, EE (University of Iowa).

The study was funded, in part, by the National Institute of Mental Health.

Attachment parenting is a philosophy on parenting that was developed by famed pediatrician William Sears.  The philosophy that is espoused by Dr. Sears is based on the theory of attachment that is a part of developmental psychology. Many parents have chosen to follow this philosophy as a way to build a bond with their child that will last a lifetime.

The theory of attachment parenting requires parents to promote and live by the eight principles that Dr. Sears developed to help parents achieve this bond with their children.

1.            Preparing for the pregnancy, the birth of the child and parenting that child after the birth.

2.            Feeding the child with respect and love.

3.            Respond to the child with sensitivity and respect.

4.            Touch your child in a nurturing way.

5.            Help the child feel safe emotionally and physically during sleep.

6.            Be consistent in the care that is provided in a loving way.

7.            Discipline children positively.

8.            Work toward a balance in your personal life and family life.

The attachment parenting theory also promotes closeness between parents and children when they are babies and older.  Babywearing is one of the ways that many parents have found to be extremely helpful in keeping their children close to them at all times.  Children require touch and love from their parents and wearing your child in a baby sling, baby wrap, or baby carriers backpack is a fabulous way to ensure that your child is right next to you whenever they need you.

The family bed and co-sleeping are also a method that is used to help children feel secure and emotionally cared for while they are sleeping.  Keeping children close by where you will be able to respond to their needs immediately is the best way to encourage the strong bond that can be achieved with attachment parenting.

Home schooling and stay at home parents are encouraged in attachment parenting.  What is consistent among all of the methods that are used by parents is that they are readily available to their children in a loving and nurturing way.  From babywearing to being home for the care of your child, all parents who are practicing attachment parenting are working to make sure that they are always there for their child.

Whether you choose to follow all of the principles of attachment parenting or only include a couple of the methods in your parenting, there are some great things to be learned from this theory.  The work that has been done by Dr. Sears has shown parents all over how important those formative years are and how important the loving care of parents really is to children.

Choosing a few of the methods to bring into your own life can have a profound effect on your child’s emotional and physical development.  Using a baby carrier is a wonderful way to keep your baby close where they need to be.  You are the whole world to your child and understanding the powerful need that your child has and responding to it with babywearing is a great way to reassure your child that you will always be there whenever they need you.

Please read through the following 20 safety tips to ensure a happy babywearing experience!

1. Inspect the carrier regularly for broken threads, holes or frayed spots, to ensure the integrity of the fabric.
2. Inspect the stitching and pull any loose threads; better they unravel from pulling, than from the weight of your baby!
3. Fabric should be sturdy and have appropriate strength when pulled – especially on stress points.  Again, better to tear from you pulling than from baby’s weight.
4. Babywearing is a skill to be learned – practice!
5. Learn new carries with a spotter or over a bed, couch or chair when learning back carries.
6. Proper position in the baby carrier is important for the infant’s hip, pelvis and spine growth; carriers which disperse most of the infant’s weight between the hips and thighs are better than ones where weight is supported by a narrow strip of fabric at the crotch.
7. Ensure safe positioning of the baby; you should be able to fit two fingers between chin and chest at all times, so as not to constrict the baby’s airway.
8. If baby seems to be snoring, wheezing, whistling, or has labored breathing, they need to be adjusted immediately.
9. Use a small support pillow or towel under newborn babies’ backs in the cradle position to keep their chin sufficiently away from their chest.
10. Not all babies will communicate discomfort; lightly push on the baby’s back, if their spine straightens or they scootch up, they need more support.
11. Keep blankets and other loose fabric away from the baby’s face.
12. Avoid over-dressing your child, as they will be kept warmer than you expect just from being held close to your body.
13. Only attempt carries or use baby carriers appropriate for your child’s developmental stage.
14. Beware of hazards on the ground that you may not be able to see with a baby on your front.
15. Remember that you need more room to turn around and get through narrow spaces without bumping the baby.
16. Be attentive to the baby’s interaction with their environment; babies have more freedom of movement and are higher up.  Remember to watch baby doesn’t grab hot drinks, a pot on the stove, or other dangerous items.  Never cook while wearing your baby.  A child worn on the back may be able to reach things you can’t see.
17. Baby carriers must be fit snugly and properly to avoid an active baby wiggling out.
18. Never wear an uncooperative child on your back.
19. Knotted carriers should be tied snugly with a square or reef knot (right over left and through, then left over right and through).
20. Remember to use your legs to bend and lift to avoid injuring your back.

With so many great baby carriers on the market today, it can certainly be difficult to choose the one that’s best for you and your child.  This article presents a series of questions to help you narrow down your choices.

What is most comfortable for you?

It’s important to consider your personal comfort first when deciding on a baby carrier; after all, if you’re not comfortable with it you probably won’t use it. There are certainly enough babywearing options available to find one that meets both you and your baby’s needs.

First you need to ask whether you prefer the baby’s weight to be balanced over both shoulders or just one. Many people like the quick and easy one-shoulder sling, whereas others need the baby’s weight to be distributed evenly over both shoulders to be comfortable.

Also, if more than one parent will be using the carrier, you may want to look for one that can be adjusted quickly and easily; some baby carriers are sized to fit only one wearer.

How much time will you spend learning how to use it?

If you’re committed to spending some time mastering a baby wrap, it is by far the most versatile carrier, accommodating multiple positions and age ranges.  However, many people would prefer something quicker and easier like simple baby carriers slings.

What stage or age is your child?

Some baby carriers are more suitable for carrying newborns and even for breast feeding, while others, which distribute weight differently or allow for back-carrying, may work better for older children.

You might prefer to invest in two carriers to meet different needs and ages, or perhaps you are hoping to find one that is designed for use from birth through to toddler.  Some carriers, such as the baby wrap, are more flexible than others, offering various carrying positions designed for use from birth through to toddler.

What will you use your baby carrier for?

Are you looking for a carrier to run quick errands, pick up older children from school, or for discreet hands-free nursing? In these cases, baby carriers slings may be a good choice because they are easy to get on and off as needed and are best for breastfeeding.

If you plan to carry your child during longer periods such as while shopping, hiking or working, then baby carriers backpacks, which support your child’s weight over two-shoulders or displace some of the weight to your hips may be a better option.

Do you have more than one child or a fussy child that would require a variety of carrying positions?  A baby carrier that is easily adjustable may be most important to you.

Size and portability are another consideration.  Do you need it to fit in your purse for quick and frequent access, or are you going to wear it for long periods of time when size is less of an issue?

What is your budget?

Obviously, cost may affect some parents’ choice of baby carriers, but you can still get a great carrier on a small budget.  Simple ring or pouch slings will be more affordable than baby carriers backpacks and you’ll still get all the benefits of babywearing.

If your budget allows for more, you can splurge on luxury designs and fabrics, or even purchase more than one baby carrier for different activities or different stages of your child’s growth. While this may sound extravagant, if you consider the high cost of a luxury stroller, two baby carriers are a relatively small investment.  Moreover, many parents find they end up using their baby carriers more than they expected – for some, even more than their stroller.

What is your style preference?

Do you have a penchant for a certain carrier style, fabric or print?  If you’re uncertain about your ability to master the tying techniques of a baby wrap, you may opt for a sling. Or perhaps you love the traditional look of a Mai Tai baby carrier. Whatever your inclination, you’ll certainly be able to find a carrier that will suit your needs for practicality, comfort and style.

What should you look for in a soft carrier?

• Strong and completely washable fabric
• Well finished seams and stress-points where the straps fasten to the pack
• Ease of use and good fit
• Heavy duty fasteners such as rings or buckles
• Easily adjustable to fit a growing baby
• A means to support baby’s head

What should you look for in rigid framed baby carriers backpacks ?

• Thick shoulder pads
• Padded hip belt to redistribute the weight from your shoulders to your hips
• A comfortable seat design for baby – doesn’t force baby’s legs apart or have the seat below the leg holes, which may cut off circulation
• Sturdy seat belt to prevent baby from standing up in the carrier
• Padding on the front rail to protect baby’s face from the carrier frame as you walk
• Sturdy stretch-resistant, easy to clean fabric, with reinforced seams at stress points
• A storage section on the back or base of the pack
• A support stand to help you load the baby in the pack and set them down again

Is there a “perfect” baby carrier?

All styles of baby carriers have their advantages and disadvantages and unfortunately no single carrier serves every purpose perfectly. After considering your own needs you simply have to select the one that suits you best. Try not to get too hung up on finding the perfect baby carrier. Just relax and enjoy the lifetime of benefits that come from wearing your baby close to you.

Let’s face it, no matter how many parenting books we read or how many well-meaning, advice-giving relatives that we have, parenting is just not easy.  It can be hard to nurture our little ones as much as we would like while still having enough time to do the things that are important to us, or even the things that need to be done. It can often feel as though you need four arms, or a thirty hour day to do everything that you need to do, but the truth is that you just need to start considering what tools can help you out.  Babywearing, the practice of keeping your baby close to your body in a baby carrier of one design or another, is one great way to start maximizing your time, and you’ll find that it has plenty of other benefits as well.

Your baby needs attention.  He or she needs to be close to you at all times; maybe they can’t be quiet when you are not in close, touching proximity, or maybe they’ll just get into mischief.  It’s adorable, it’s heartwarming, and it can be a real pain when you have things that you need to get done!  Being close to a parent is something that babies require to be really content and when they’re out of contact with you, it is only too likely that they will become fractious and fussy.  When you start wearing your baby, you’ll find that you can stay in bodily contact with your baby while still doing other things.  You will have both hands free and you can move freely as well.  You won’t need to balance your baby precariously under your arm or on your hip, and your baby will feel snug and secure.

When you are babywearing, you’ll find that you can get things done when your baby is sleeping and content or even when they are up and happy.  You can use a baby carrier while you are gardening, doing your chores, reading, or going for a walk.  You will be able to tend to your other children and they will not feel neglected with a new baby around.  It can allow you to breastfeed with your hands free, and you may even find that this is a great way to dance with your baby as well.  You won’t feel trapped by your baby because you’ll be able to go places and do things without feeling guilty. Moreover, you will be able to go places that are difficult with strollers, such as stairs or escalators, on grass, sandy beaches, wading in a pool or lake, through crowded malls, street festivals, a busy airport, a bus or subway. You have none of the juggling and struggling of a stroller.  Get other members of your family involved in babywearing, and you’ll find that they’ll start loving it as well.

While babywearing is something that is very advantageous for the parent, remember that it is even better for your baby!  Your baby will love being snuggled up next to you.  After all, babies are easily spooked by new things and new experiences and you’ll find that letting them snuggle up to you with their whole bodies will be very comforting to them.  They can stretch against your torso and be comforted by the sound of your heart.  They will feel safe and bonded with you in a way you couldn’t imagine.  You’ll also discover that this is a great way to keep your baby warm.

Also consider that you are going to be able to keep your baby with you much more than you would if you were just carrying them.  Babies, no matter how small, are going to get heavy over time, and there is only so much your arms can take.  With babywearing, you’ll put your child in one of your favorite baby carriers slings or a baby wrap and carry them around.  Your ability to keep them with you won’t be based on the strength of your arms, and instead, you are going to be able to supervise them while still going on with your life.  Consider how great it will be for your baby to go anywhere you are going.

One impressive point in favour of babywearing is that it actually helps your baby learn more.  When we think of babies crying, we think about how distracting it is to us, but also think about how distracting it is to them, as well. Babies who aren’t wasting their energy crying and fussing will focus much more readily on the things around them.  Moreover, remember that crying is exhausting; how many times can you think of your baby going right to sleep after they have had a crying fit?  A baby who is worn will cry less and sleep better.  They will also be much more alert and well rested over all.

Remember that with babywearing, your baby is going to get a wider array of experiences and enhance their social development as well.  When you can take your baby places more easily, you’ll simply go out more.  Babies who are exposed to more interesting stimuli and social interactions will be more apt to take in all the sensations around them.  A child in a baby carrier is closer to people and can study facial expressions, learn languages faster and be more familiar with body language.  This is far better than babies whose only stimuli come from the mobile above their crib or playpen!

Developmentally, babies who have early experience with babywearing do much better than babies who are left to their own devices.  It is commonly believed that babies do only half of their “prenatal” developing in the womb.  Once outside, they continue to develop crucially for another nine months.  Your constant motion is important for your baby’s continued brain development, gastrointestinal and respiratory health and to establish balance and muscle tone.  Also, babywearing allows them to regulate their body’s irregular rhythms to your calming rhythm of touch and movement, thereby easing the transition from the womb to life in the outside world.

Emotionally, babies need to feel attached to you. Some people may wonder if holding a baby close all the time makes them more needy. On the contrary, if they can see and touch you whenever they want to, they are reassured that you will be there when they need you. Independence is usually established earlier in these children because they are more confident when it comes time to explore on their own.

Don’t forget that babywearing is ideal for special needs babies as well.  Researchers have found that babies who are experiencing a failure to thrive, preemie babies and handicapped babies all benefit greatly from it.  The close proximity to mom helps these babies thrive. Being close to mom entices them to feed more frequently, keeps them warmer, and keeps them calm so that they can spend their energy growing instead of crying. It was also found that the mom’s breathing movements stimulated the baby’s breathing, sort of like a respiratory pacemaker, so that these babies had fewer stop-breathing episodes.   Babies of mothers with postpartum depression will find they can develop a deeper bond with their mothers, and mothers with postpartum depression can overcome it faster because progesterone (the mothering hormone) is increased through physical contact with your infant.

Babywearing can bring out the best in you and your baby, so whether you have a little one or you are expecting, now is the time to look into this ancient and highly useful practice! For more information on different baby carriers check out our “Choosing a Baby Carrier” category or shop for a great selection of baby carriers and accessories.