If you love the idea of keeping your baby close to you or you just want something smaller than a stroller to lug around, no doubt babywearing is a wonderful option that you will want to give some consideration. There are a variety of parents today that are enjoying babywearing. This term refers to carrying your baby in a sling, wrap, or a baby carrier backpack. It is a wonderful option, but you may be wondering why so many parents like this option. Well, babywearing has been around for hundreds of years and it comes with many great benefits for parents and babies alike.
One great benefit is that this is very comforting to small babies. You'll find that babies feel at ease when they are kept in contact with one of their parents. Sure, you could have your baby in a stroller, but in a baby carrier, your baby is all snuggled up to you and they enjoy your warmth, they can smell you, and they feel you close to them. It is less intimidating for them to view the world from there, than from a stroller where they are being pushed towards the unknown and they can't even see you. Babies are less likely to cry when you choose to wear them, and they feel content and secure as well.
Studies show that another benefit of babywearing is that babies who have been "worn" are more likely to develop their communication and social skills faster. Keeping them close to you allows them to see the expressions on your face and learn about body language. They often learn to speak faster as well; having your baby close in a baby carrier makes you more likely to talk with your baby, as you go through the day, which will help them to develop faster socially. This is much different than pushing around your baby in a stroller where they can't see or hear you.
Another benefit of babywearing is that flat head syndrome is less likely to occur to your baby. This occurs to babies that end up sleeping on their back too much or spend too much time in strollers or car seats. While babies should sleep on their back to prevent SIDS, you need to be careful how they are positioned while they are awake because the baby's head is so soft. You can prevent this with babywearing.
There are benefits to parents as well when it comes to babywearing. When you use a baby carrier, you'll have your hands free, so you can get things done that you would otherwise have difficulty doing without interruption. When you go out, instead of dealing with that big stroller, you will only have a piece of cloth to keep with you, which easily folds up when you are not using it. You can even breastfeed hands free. Moms also benefit from the closeness of their baby, which can help to alleviate problems with post partum depression. Babies are kept close without the mom having to interact with them all the time. The bond that is created will benefit both mom and baby in the long run.
So, make sure that you take the time to look into babywearing closely to decide if it is the right option for you and your baby.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
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