What Every Parent Should Know About Babywearing

Using a Sling to Cradle Your Baby is More Fun (and Popular) Than You May Realize

You may have heard the term "babywearing," but if you're like most people, you don't really understand what it means. You've seen people using slings and baby carriers, but you might think it's silly, awkward, or inconvenient. But babywearing has been around since the beginning of time as a practical way to carry your baby while still being able to go about your daily business.

What is babywearing?

Babywearing means carrying your baby using a sling, wrap, or other type of carrier. Many parents wear their babies during shopping trips or on walks. Still others wear their babies more frequently, using a sling around the house while doing chores.

Many people have the mistaken impression that babies who are worn don't get enough floor time because they are constantly being held, and subsequently their skills are delayed. This is far from the truth. Parents who wear their babies around the house do so in lieu of a swing or bouncy seat. Those times when other parents put baby in a swing to soothe tired cries, a babywearing parent will put baby in a sling. Baby still gets plenty of floor time to work on her motor skills. Some studies have shown that babywearing may actually lead to accelerated motor skills, although these findings are not conclusive. Regardless, babywearing will not stunt your child's development in the least.

Who practices babywearing?

Babywearing has been around for millennia. Every culture has practiced babywearing at some point in history. These days, babywearing is still very common in most parts of the world. It is extremely common in Africa and Asia, and is a fast-growing trend here in America as well. Moms (and dads) from all walks of life are jumping on the babywearing train, and loving it. Look to your favorite celebrities: Angelina Jolie, Gwen Stefani, Madonna, Kate Hudson, Paul McCartney, and Christian Bale, along with many others, have all been spotted wearing their babies.

How does babywearing benefit the baby?