Babywearing: A Better Way to Move Through Life

Babywearing: A Better Way to Move Through Life

Have you heard that bringing your little one along for the ride — right there, as close as possible — is better for the both of you?
Well, it's true! And boy, oh boy, are the benefits incredible!

Carried babies:

    • Cry less. 43% less overall and 54% less during evening hours. (1)
    • Are Healthier. They gain weight faster, have better motor skills, coordination, an increased muscle tone, and a better sense of balance. (2, 5, 7)
    • Get a better view of the world. Babies pushed in strollers or lugged around in car seats only get to see the adult world at knee level.
    • Become Independent Faster. Making them confident and less clingy. (3)
    • Sleep Better. They fall asleep quicker and sleep for longer periods of time. (4)
    • Learn More. Not overstimulated, but calm and alert, observing and taking in the world around them. (5)
    • Are Happier. They feel loved and secure. (6)

That being said (based on studies) babywearing is also great for you. Read on.

Carrying your baby or toddler…

    • Enables better communication between you and your baby- (without your baby having to cry) as you become attuned to your baby’s facial expressions and other gestures.
    • Creates confident parents — there’s no better feeling than when your baby is calm and content because you have met all of his or her needs.
    • Is convenient - nothing is more awkward than carrying a heavy plastic car seat with one arm!
    • Allows you to safely move about with your baby regardless of terrain - you can stroll down uneven sidewalks, narrow lanes, walk up the stairs, or climb mountains.
    • Does wonders for your spirit - encourages you to get out, breathe in the air, and let the sun shine warmly on your face with your little one.
    • Encourages weight-bearing exercise - lactating mothers will lose less bone mass by carrying with them the extra weight of their babes.
    • Makes discreet nursing possible - without having to find a place to sit.
    • Helps you to interact with your other children - while holding your little one close at the same time.

You get emotional and physical benefits for both you and your baby. You can move through your days together.

It truly is a joyous way to live.

References:
1. Kostandy et al., “Kangaroo Care (Skin Contact) Reduces Crying Response to Pain in Preterm Neonates: Pilot Results,” Pain
Management Nursing 2008: 9:55-65
2. Lawn et al., “‘Kangaroo Mother Care’ to Prevent Neonatal Deaths Due to Preterm Birth Complications,” International Journal of
Epidemiology” 2010: April.
3. Whiting, J.M.W., “Environmental Constraints on Infant Care Practices”. In Handbook of Cross-Cultural Human Development
edited by R.H. Munroe, R.L. Munroe & B.B. Whiting, New York: Garland STPM Press, 2005.
4. Ferber et al., “The Effect of Skin-to-Skin Contact (Kangaroo Care) Shortly After Birth on the Neurobehavioral Responses of the Term
Newborn: A Randomized, Controlled Trial. Pediatrics 113 2004:858-865.
5. Charpak, N., “Kangaroo Mother Care: 25 Years After,” Acta Paediatric 94 2005: 5, 514-522.
6. Powell, A. “Harvard Researchers Say Children Need Touching and Attention,” Harvard Gazette.
7. Ludington-Hoe, S. Kangaroo Care: The Best You Can Do to Help Your Preterm Infant. New York: Bantam Books, 1993.