As a new parent, having your hands free while keeping your baby close sounds like a dream, right? Well, that's exactly what babywearing offers! Let's dive into why this ancient practice is a total game-changer for modern parents and something that I have personally done with my children too!

Physical Benefits

Wearing your baby isn't just convenient - it's actually great for their development! Did you know that Babies worn in carriers typically:

• • Cry about 43% less than babies who aren't carried (based on research from the journal Pediatrics)

  • Experience better digestion and less reflux due to the upright position

  • Develop stronger neck and core muscles from the subtle movements they make while being carried

  • Have more regulated body temperature and heart rate through close contact with their caregiver

The Fourth Trimester Connection

That magical skin-to-skin contact isn't just for the newborn days! Babywearing helps to:

• Maintain that crucial parent-baby bond

• Regulate baby's nervous system

• Make breastfeeding easier and more discrete when needed

• Reduce postpartum anxiety and depression symptoms in caregivers
  
  

Types of Carriers

There's no one-size-fits-all in babywearing. Here are your main options: 

• Wraps: The most versatile option. Great from newborn to toddler but come with a learning curve

• Ring Slings: Perfect for quick ups and downs, especially great for hip carries with older babies

• Soft Structured Carriers: Think buckles and straps - user-friendly and partner-friendly

• Meh Dai: A beautiful hybrid between wraps and structured carriers
  
  

Getting Started

 

The key to successful babywearing is starting safely!

• Always ensure your baby's airway is clear

• Position baby high enough to kiss their head

• Keep baby's hips in the M-position

• Start with short periods and work your way up
  
  

What You'll Need

While you don't need to buy everything at once, here's what we recommend.

• One carrier for the newborn phase (a wrap or ring sling works great)

• A structured carrier for when baby gets bigger

• A lightweight option for summer

• A supportive option for longer wearing sessions
  
  

Expert tip

 

Join a local babywearing group! Nothing beats hands-on help from experienced babywearers.

Safety tip

 

Always follow the T.I.C.K.S. guidelines for safe babywearing:

• Tight

• In view at all times

• Close enough to kiss

• Keep chin off chest

• Supported back

 

At CHB, we believe in sharing tried-and-true parenting tools. Some recommended carriers we love: the Aerial Buckle Wrap for newborns (perfect for those early days), the Tula Free to Grow for versatility, and the WildBird ring sling for quick trips.

 

Pro-tip

 

Most cities have babywearing libraries where you can try before you buy. It's like test-driving a car, but cozier! Come and check out the carriers at The Wild too! Remember, the best carrier is the one that both you and your baby love. Don't be afraid to try different styles until you find your perfect match.

 

Note to readers: While some links may be affiliate links, we only recommend products we've personally tested and love. Your trust matters most to us! Want to learn more about babywearing? Drop a comment with your questions here.