10 benefits of baby wearing

Baby carriers are helpful when you are bringing a new baby into your life. They allow baby to feel the warmth of mom or dad’s skin, hear their heart beat, breathe in their scent, and experience eye-to-eye contact. All of which are important for healthy bonding.

Baby wearing also encourages emotional and physical development. It may seem awkward at first, but give yourself time to adjust to it, just like you do with breastfeeding.

Laura Simeon, contributor to The Natural Child Project, shares some other advantages of wearing your baby.

It’s convenient. It keeps moms hands-free (which is great if you are carrying multiple things); she doesn't have to worry about a bulky stroller, or a removable car seat. Most baby carriers enable you to breast feed discreetly in public. It also doubles as a changing pad, blanket, or cushion when mom and baby are away from home. “I've found my sling especially handy when negotiating busy airports with a small child and if moms have other kids, she has the ability and mobility to care for them.”

It promotes physical development. Because they are involved in their parent’s world, instead of being mere spectators, they are better able to regulate their own physical responses. It also exercises their vestibular system, which controls balance says Simeon. “The sling is in essence a ‘transitional womb’ for the new baby, who has not yet learned to control his or her bodily functions and movements,” she adds.

Babies are happier. Wearing your baby helps reduce crying and colic. According to Simeon, studies have shown, the more babies are held, and the less they cry and fuss. “Babies who do not need to spend their energy on crying are calmly observing and actively learning about their environment,” says Simeon.

It’s healthy for mom and dad. It may be hard to find time to work with a new baby. New moms are establishing a routine and adjusting to life with a baby. However, if you carry your baby around in a sling, Simeon says you will enjoy the dual benefits of walking and ‘weightlifting’.

It helps communication with baby. “When we hold our baby close in a sling, we become finely attuned to his gestures and facial expressions,” says Simeon. She goes on to say baby-wearing parents have reported they never learned to distinguish their baby’s cries because they are able to communicate without crying.  It’s a positive interaction – because the baby doesn't have to cry when they need something whether it is food, a diaper change, or if they are just bored, the trust in their parents increases and the mutual attachment is more enjoyable.

Baby carriers can be used to bond with baby. “It makes me smile when I see a new father going for a walk with his baby in a sling. The baby is becoming used to his voice, heartbeat, movements and facial expressions, and the two are forging a strong attachment of their own,” says Simeon. The same goes for grandparents and other caregivers.

Slings are safe. When you’re in a crowded place, your baby is right next to your body.

Slings are economical. They cost less than strollers (between $25 and $50 new) and can be used for two or more years.

It’s fun for mom, dad, and baby. Your baby gets to interact more with adults because they are at their eye level, and “your child will feel more a part of your life,” adds Simeon. For mom, you get to cuddle with your little one and as they get older it’s easier to have conversations and observe their reactions. Baby wearing gives busy parents the freedom to continue their daily routine. Moms and dads can multitask easily, interact with their little ones throughout the day, and nursing moms can feed frequently.  It provides the baby with an environment where their most important needs can be met: Food, warmth, love, and touch.