An introduction to Baby Wearing
What is babywearing?
Babies often seem content as long as they are in their mother’s arms. Some mothers use carriers or ‘slings’ to keep their baby close, and they like to ‘wear’ their babies for long periods of time, instead of putting them down in a cot or baby swing. It is not a new idea. In fact, it is the way babies have been raised for centuries in traditional communities around the world.
Why is babywearing a good idea?
It is practical- it allows mum to have her hands free to get on with chores, look after siblings, make meals… all whilst carrying baby. No more waiting for lifts, no heaving heavy prams around, or for larger families, no double buggies! Nowhere is out of bounds, from country hillsides to busy shops.
It saves money- slings vary in price, from around £50 right down to free- you can make your own from a bedsheet, and you don’t even need to sew! Compared with the price of a pram which can be several hundred pounds, babywearing is very economical. It also avoids the need for expensive baby seats and swings.
It soothes baby- Babies in slings cry less; Things that may frighten a baby cause less distress to a baby in arms. Mum can hear baby the minute he stirs, so he never needs to let it escalate. The sound of mum's heartbeat and breathing is familiar and calming, and in mums' arms the motion is the same natural motion they experience in the womb.
It promotes growth and physical health- Breastfeeding is easy, accessible and discreet in the sling; frequent feeding is a potent stimulus for growth. They also cry less and therefore divert the energy they would have wasted on crying into growing. Sitting in a sling promotes good hip development, and prevents 'flat head syndrome', and spinal stress that can be caused by spending too long in a car seat.
It helps babies thrive- Some western babies spend up to 2/3 of their time alone in prams, seats and swings. In an extreme case, baby could be moved from cot to high chair to car seat, hardly being touched at all! Research has proven that touch is vital to baby's development.
It aids bonding- Skin-to-skin contact, kangaroo care techniques, babywearing, co-sleeping and co-bathing are all ways to encourage your baby to experience pleasant physical contact with you. It is easy (and very tempting!) to kiss and cuddle baby in the sling. Dads have an excellent opportunity to bond using the sling too.
It promotes social and intellectual development- From his elevated position, baby enjoys being involved in everything, watching conversations, showing off his smile, and being noticed more than his peers in their prams. Babies spend longer in a state of 'quiet alert', and can experience more variety in positions and views, as mum moves around.