An Introduction to Babywearing
You’ve seen all the influencers showing off their baby carriers all around the internet and you may be wondering how can I do that, it seems so convenient?
Today, I am going to take a brief introduction into babywearing. Trust me, this is exactly what you need!
What you’ll learn in this blog:
What babywearing is
The benefits of babywearing
Styles of baby carriers
Tips for successful babywearing
Answered FAQs about babywearing
What is babywearing?
Babywearing is utilizing a baby carrier to “wear” your baby. This is usually accomplished by a long piece of fabric that is wrapped and tied around your body or a manufactured carrier. It is a form of baby transport (bringing a baby with you) that can be used for as long as mutually desired.
Why do parents choose to babywear?
It mimics the womb.
It allows your baby to be close.
It nurtures secure attachment.
It promotes sleep for newborns and infants.
It can help with reflux and wind
It is very calming for both mom and baby.
It allows you to have two free hands.
What are the benefits of babywearing?
In the newborn stage mother will experience increased levels of oxytocin leading to:
A more intimate maternal bond
Easier breastfeeding
Lowered instances of postpartum depression
Similar benefits are seen in paternal carrying
Babies are usually calmer because their primal needs are met
It is very soothing for infants - to hear their parents' heartbeat and feel the rhythm of their steps
Appropriate babywearing supports neck and hip muscle development
Babies develop social skills because they are closer to people and can study facial expressions
Fosters early independence in children.
Promotes a secure attachment between child and caregiver
Decreases risk of “flat head syndrome”
Reduces developmental dysplasia of hip (DDH)
Types of Baby Carriers
The type of carrier you select will likely depend on a variety of factors like the age and size of your child, your body type, your budget, and your personal preference. If you want to try it out before you buy, search for a babywearing group or a baby shop near you. They will often have a lending library or a trial period to let you see what carrier will work for you.
A ring sling is a long piece of fabric with two rings at one end to thread the fabric through and create a sling carrier.
A wrap is a long piece of knitted or woven fabric that you wrap and tie around your body to secure your baby in place. Knitted fabrics will be used as a stretchy wrap and woven fabrics are non-stretchy wraps.
A soft structured carrier is a pre-manufactured structured carrier that you buckle around your waist and upper back and tighten to comfort. To use this when your baby is a newborn, you’ll likely have to get a “newborn insert” to make sure your baby is positioned correctly.
A hybrid carrier combines the features of a wrap style and a soft structured carrier to keep your baby close. This is sometimes referred to as a Meh Dai carrier, which originated in Asia.
A backpack carrier is usually used for hiking, this type of carrier is only suited for infants who can sit up. It is a framed backpacking style backpack that allows for you to buckle your baby in.
Most styles are suitable from newborn to toddler, some are more adjustable than others.
Tips for Successful Babywearing
Safety
Safety is of the utmost consideration when it comes to babywearing.
Follow the acronym TICKS
Tight
In view
Close enough to kiss
Keep chin off the chest
Supported back
Newborns:
Newborns can be worn right away provided there is no medical indication that would make it unsafe. Generally a baby should be above 8 lbs to begin wearing.
At this stage, I would recommend a stretchy wrap or a ring sling. With a structured carrier, you will need a newborn insert to ensure you get the best fit.
Newborns should always be worn on your front facing you.
As your baby grows:
From 4-8 months I recommend a ring sling or a structured carrier.
From 8 months onward I recommend a structured carrier on the front or the back.
Older babies can be worn on your back with a structured carrier, a ring sling or a backpack carrier.
You will find what works best for you and your baby.
Babywearing FAQ
How do I babywear?
This is going to depend on the style of carrier you have. Read the instructions and watch the tutorials online to make sure you have the best fit.
How long can I babywear?
Parents can choose to baby wear from infancy through toddlerhood.
Can I baby Wear my twins?
Yes! There are many ways that you can wear your twins. When they are newborns you can use a long woven wrap to fit twins (there are many tutorials online). When they are older you can use two structured carriers to carry on on your front and one on your back. Some manufacturers design carriers specifically for twins as well.
Can I wear my baby forward facing?
If you have a carrier that allows your baby to be worn forward facing (like the ergo baby 360 or a stretchy wrap) you may be interested in utilizing this option.
Yes, you can wear your baby facing forward, but I would caution you to limit the amount of time they stay forward. Positionally, babies have improper leg and hip support when forward facing. They are often also in a position where their back is arched. Finally, babies can become overstimulated quite quickly. For these reasons I only recommend outward facing for periods of about 30 minutes.
Can I babywear when I'm pregnant?
Yes! Be sure your wrap or carrier is positioned comfortably and securely above or below your bump. Babywearing while pregnant definitely feels different than when not pregnant, if you become uncomfortable or it becomes painful, remove your baby carrier right away.
Can I breastfeed in my baby carrier?
Yes! Search for tutorials for breastfeeding in your carrier online or on YouTube!
Book a virtual planning session for help with baby-wearing or another postpartum topic.