Mom Moments

Using a baby sling/ wrap/ carrier is more popular these days then when my first child was born.  For my boys (5, 3, and soon-to-be-born), I’ve been really thankful for a nice carrier, and I know more about attachment parenting and how baby wearing fits into that philosophy and way of life.

There are so many different kinds out there, some available in stores around town and many many others available online.  How to choose?  Click HERE for a guide.

Personally, I love the infantino sling for newborns.

I’ve used softpack carriers, but this time I will use a stretchy wrap that I hope to make myself,

 and I want to order a mei tai carrier as well.

Ten Reasons to Wear Your Baby   from naturalchild.com

1. Wearing a baby is convenient.
When we carry a baby in a sling, we can walk around freely and not have to worry about negotiating steps, crowds or narrow aisles with a stroller.

2. Wearing a baby promotes physical development.
When a baby rides in a sling attached to his mother, he is in tune with the rhythm of her breathing, the sound of her heartbeat, and the movements his mother makes – walking, bending, and reaching. This stimulation helps him to regulate his own physical responses, and exercises his vestibular system, which controls balance.

3. Babies worn in slings are happier.
Studies have shown that the more babies are held, the less they cry and fuss.

4. Baby-wearing is healthy for you!
It can be challenging for new mothers to find time to exercise, but if you carry your baby around with you most of the day or go for a brisk walk with your baby in her sling, you will enjoy the dual benefits of walking and “weightlifting”.

5. Toddlers appreciate the security of the sling.
Slings are usually associated with infants, but they can be very useful for toddlers as well; most slings accommodate children up to 35 or 40 pounds.

6. Baby-wearing helps you and your baby to communicate with each other.
The more confidence we have in our parenting, the more we can relax and enjoy our children. A large part of feeling confident as a parent is the ability to read our baby’s cues successfully. When we hold our baby close in a sling, we become finely attuned to his gestures and facial expressions.

7. Slings are a bonding tool for fathers, grandparents, and other caregivers.
Slings are a useful tool for every adult in a baby’s life. The baby is becoming used to his voice, heartbeat, movements and facial expressions, and the two are forging a strong attachment of their own.

8. Slings are a safe place for a child to be.
Instead of running loose in crowded or dangerous places, a child in a sling is held safe and secure right next to your body.

9. Slings are economical.
Slings cost far less than strollers, front-carriers or backpacks. Many mothers consider the sling to be one of their most useful and economical possessions. Inexpensive slings can be found for about $25 -$50.

10. Baby-wearing is fun.
Who doesn’t love to cuddle a precious little baby? And when your baby is older, having her in the sling makes conversations easier and allows you to observe her reactions to the wonders of the world around her. It’s also fun for baby, because when she is up at eye level, other adults notice and interact with her more. Your child will feel more a part of your life when she is in her sling, and you will find yourself becoming more and more enchanted with this special little person.