Babywearing is the practice of carrying your baby close against your body in a sling or any other type of carrier. It frees up your hands and allows you to get things done around the house, go grocery shopping, and more, making things easier. When done right, babywearing can be safe and beneficial. Discussed below are the things you should know about babywearing.
1. How safe is babywearing?
Babywearing’s biggest concern is suffocation, mainly for babies below four months old. During the first months after delivery, toddlers can’t control their heads due to weak neck muscles, and if their noses and mouths are obstructed, they might be unable to breathe. Beware of the T.I.C.K.S of safe babywearing to enjoy its benefits while ensuring protection for your baby. They include Tight, In view at all times, Close enough to kiss, Keep chin off the chest, and supported back. Sticking to these rules ensures that you’ve carried your child the safest way possible and there isn’t airflow restriction.
2. Types of baby carriers
There are various types of baby carriers in the market, including:
- Soft wrap: To wear this carrier, wrap it around your body, then put your baby inside. Thanks to its fabric’s nature, a soft wrap is ideal for younger babies
- Woven wrap: This is a fabric that you wrap around your body, and it comes in varying lengths suitable for different body sizes and shapes. They’re more structured and stiffer than soft wraps, allowing you to carry toddlers or bigger babies more comfortably
- Ring sling: Worn over one shoulder, and its fabric is usually folded over to create a pocket for your little one. Ring sling has a ring you can adjust to fit better
- Soft-structured carrier: They can be worn at the back and on the front too
Your baby carrier choice depends on your baby’s age and size, your body type, budget, and personal preferences.
3. Benefits of babywearing
Getting babies to stop crying can be challenging. However, wearing them reduces crying. Wearing your baby close, especially in the special carriers designed for skin-to-skin contact, popularly known as kangaroo care, can regulate your toddler’s temperature, heartbeat, and breathing patterns, particularly in premature babies. It promotes regular breastfeeding, helping you improve or maintain breast milk supply.
Babywearing strengthens the connection and bonding between you and your young one. It might also make it easier for you to read your toddler’s cues more confidently. Since both of your hands are free, there’s a lot you can do within and outside your home.
4. When to start babywearing
You can start wearing your baby from birth. Wraps and slings are perfect for newborns, and you can use them as your little one grows through toddlerhood. However, check the label to see the manufacturer’s weight guide to ensure the baby’s safety and comfort.
5. Choosing a suitable baby carrier
If you have no experience using baby carriers, it may be challenging to identify the right one. When choosing a carrier, consider your and baby’s comfort and support the baby’s natural hip and spine development. Consider whether you can get the toddler into the carrier alone, nurse in it, how long the baby can fit in it and if it promotes skin-to-skin contact.
Endnote
Babywearing can be pretty beneficial for you and your baby. Consider these tips for things you need to know about wearing your baby.
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