The Amazing Benefits of Babywearing: An Occupational Therapist's Guide
Want a calmer, happier baby while keeping your hands free? Babywearing might be the perfect solution! As pediatric physical and occupational therapists, we often recommend babywearing for its incredible benefits for both parent and child. Let's dive into what babywearing is, its advantages, and how to choose a carrier safely.
Babywearing at a Glance
Benefits:
Promotes parent-infant bonding
Calms fussy babies
Supports healthy development
Boosts milk production (if breastfeeding)
Frees up your hands
Considerations:
Choose a carrier that promotes healthy hip development.
Ensure the baby's airway is clear and follow safety guidelines.
What is Babywearing?
Babywearing is the practice of carrying your baby close to your body using a supportive carrier. It comes in many forms, from traditional wraps and slings to structured carriers. Babywearing has been practiced for centuries across cultures and offers numerous benefits for development and parent-child bonding.
The Many Benefits of Babywearing
Promotes Bonding: Close physical contact strengthens the parent-infant bond.
Calms Fussy Babies: The gentle movement and closeness soothes babies, often reducing crying.
Supports Development: Babywearing provides vital sensory input for balance, body awareness, and overall development.
Boosts Milk Production: Skin-to-skin contact can increase milk production for breastfeeding parents.
Frees Up Your Hands: Babywearing allows you to get things done while keeping your little one close.
Supports Premature Babies: Helps regulate temperature, breathing, and promotes a sense of security for babies born early.
Babywearing isn't just about the big benefits – it makes everyday life with a little one so much easier! Here's how babywearing allows you to:
Calm your fussy baby while folding laundry.
Prepare dinner with both hands free.
Take your older child to the park while keeping the baby close and content.
Daily tasks around the house
Choosing the Right Baby Carrier
Carrier Types: Explore wraps, slings, structured carriers, and more to find the best fit for you and your baby's age.
Hip Health: Opt for carriers recognized by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute for healthy hip positioning.
Comfort & Safety: Prioritize your comfort and ensure the baby is securely positioned, with their airway clear.
Consider different types of carriers. Wraps are ideal for newborns and offer a cozy fit, while structured carriers provide more support as babies grow. Think about your own comfort and how easy the carrier is to use when making your choice.
Our Top Recommended Baby Carriers:
Best overall – Baby Bjorn Harmony
Best value – Infantino Carry On Active Multi Pocket Carrier
Best newborn carrier – Happy Baby Newborn
Best sling for newborn – Solly Baby Wrap Carrier; Baby Ktan
Best hybrid baby carrier: Boppy Comfyfit Adjust Carrier
Best lightweight carrier: Happy Baby Original Carrier (also good for newborns!), Colugo Original
Babywearing Safety Tips from Pediatric Therapists
Follow Carrier Instructions: Each carrier has specific guidelines.
M-Position: Ensure baby's hips are spread apart, thighs supported, and knees bent higher than the buttocks.
ABCs of Safety: Airway open, Back supported, Circulation unimpeded.
Tummy Time is Still Important: Babywearing complements but doesn't replace tummy time.
Supports Development: The gentle motion and closeness of babywearing provide essential sensory input for your baby's growing body. This helps them develop balance, body awareness, and a sense of security in the world.
Babywearing can be a wonderful tool for new parents, offering benefits for both baby and caregiver. If you'd like to learn more about how babywearing can support your child's development, consider scheduling an occupational or physical therapy consultation at Tiny Transformations. We're here to help you and your little one thrive!
Babywearing FAQs
What is babywearing?
Babywearing is the practice of carrying your baby close to your body in a sling, wrap, or structured carrier. It's a way to keep your little one safe, comforted, and content while having your hands free.
What are the benefits of babywearing?
Babywearing offers many benefits for both babies and parents, including:
Stronger bonding
Calmer babies
Developmental support
Hands-free convenience
Is babywearing safe?
Yes, babywearing can be very safe when you prioritize the following:
Hip-healthy carrier: It's crucial to choose a carrier recognized by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. These carriers are designed to support your baby's hips in an ergonomic "M-position" with their knees bent higher than their buttocks. This promotes healthy hip development and reduces the risk of hip dysplasia.
Proper positioning: Always ensure your baby is positioned correctly in the carrier:
M-position: As mentioned above, this position is essential for hip health.
Airway open: Your baby's chin should be off their chest, and you should be able to see their face at all times to ensure they can breathe freely.
Close enough to kiss: Your baby should be positioned high and tight enough for you to easily kiss their head.
Follow guidelines: Each baby carrier comes with specific instructions. Read and follow them carefully to ensure proper use and safety. Pay attention to weight limits, age recommendations, and any precautions for specific carrier types.
Important Note: If your baby was born prematurely, has any medical conditions, or you have a
ny concerns, consult your pediatrician before starting babywearing.
Can I breastfeed while babywearing?
Yes! Many carriers, particularly wraps and slings, are designed to accommodate breastfeeding. This offers discreet and convenient feeding on the go.
When can I start babywearing?
Most baby carriers are suitable from birth. However, if your baby was born prematurely or has any medical concerns, consult your pediatrician first.
How do I know if my baby is positioned safely?
There are three key things to remember for safe babywearing:
M-position: Your baby's hips should be spread apart in a natural frog-like position, with their knees bent higher than their buttocks. This looks like the letter 'M' and is crucial for healthy hip development.
Clear airway: Ensure your baby's face isn't pressed against your body or the carrier fabric, and their chin isn't tucked into their chest. You should always be able to see their face clearly to monitor their breathing.
Close enough to kiss: Your baby should be positioned high on your chest and snug against you. This keeps them secure and allows you to easily kiss the top of their head. If your baby is sagging or too low in the carrier, it may constrict their breathing.
Is babywearing a replacement for tummy time?
No, babywearing is a wonderful complement to tummy time, but it doesn't replace it. Tummy time is essential for babies to develop core strength and motor skills.