Using a Baby Sling or Carrier – What are the Benefits?

Special thanks to the contributor of this post - Ina Doyle, Certifiied BWC, Adv. BFC

Using a baby sling or carrier to hold your baby or child close to your body is called “babywearing”. And it’s more than a means of transport or a hands-free kit.

What are the Benefits of babywearing

… for your baby/child?

• meets baby’s innate need for physical contact

• aids the development of a strong bond with the person wearing the baby regularly

• supports normal physical, cognitive and mental development

• develops baby’s sense of balance and muscle tone

• physiological correct positioning of legs supports healthy hip development

• relieves colic and constipation

• allows baby/child to observe and be part of life in security and comfort

… babywearing for you?

• can go anywhere without thinking about suitability for pram

• wearer’s need for physical contact is met

• two free hands for older children, the other twin, chores etc. (no need to wait until the baby sleeps to get stuff done!)

• no more long and heavy arms

• enables the wearer to meet the baby’s needs quickly, reducing stress for everyone

• no need for a bulky double buggy

• allows adoptive parents or parents who have been physically or emotionally separated from their baby/child to create a strong bond

And there are benefits to a babywearing consultation too!

• demonstration of and information about a wide range of carriers and carries

• a short session to be comfortable and confident, rather than weeks of trial and error

• opportunity to try several different carriers or slings in a calm environment

• step-by-step guidance, at your pace, tailored to your and your little one’s needs

• little tweaks you won’t find in standardised instructions

• a trained and experienced eye to assess your technique and give tips on possible adjustments

• evidence-based, every-day-compatible information about babywearing and normal infant development