An Introduction to Babywearing

Babywearing is a term coined by Attachment Parenting guru Dr. Sears but the act of wearing ones baby has been around for centuries. People in all cultures have worn their babies for many reasons, beneficial to both mom and child.

Babywearing promotes bonding between parent and baby. Constant touching, close contact means you are that much more aware and in tune with each other. Mother's who regularly wear their babies are more likely to respond to their needs such as hunger, sleepiness and discomfort and all without the baby having to resort to crying. When an infants needs are met without having to scream, trust is strengthened. Trust in their caregiver and thus the rest of the world. The more secure and confident the baby is, the more they can take from their environment learning along the way. Baby wearing most definitely enhances attachment between both bodies involved.

Wearing your baby is also very convenient. Anyone who has tried to push a stroller thru a crowded place knows that it can be very difficult. Stairs, sand, rocky paths and such only make it even harder to get around. If you are wearing your baby it's much easier to get to where you need to go without the struggles a bulky stroller imposes. Your arms are free as well meaning you can carry or pull luggage or other items.

Breastfeeding your baby in public is more comfortable and discreet. When you have the baby attached to your front in a sling it's easy to nurse when you need to and even hands free. Strangers also tend to keep more of a distance when you are wearing your baby where as babies sitting in strollers may be touched and bothered, exposing your little one to more germs then necessary.