Babywearing Through The Ages

Babywearing has been a common sight in many cultures and throughout many centuries. The Mexican mother carries her baby in a rebozo sling, the Asian grandmother carries her grandbaby on her back in a soft carrier, and the African girl carries her brother on her back in a wraparound carrier. However, for many years, babywearing has not been a common sight in the American culture. But that is changing. Parents are rediscovering the ancient art of babywearing.

There are many benefits to wearing your baby in a baby carrier. Research has proven that being held is good for babies. Babies are born with certain desires that will help them survive. The urge to suckle is one that will help them get food and nourishment. The urge to be held provides that they will be protected and cared for. Being held and worn in a carrier, a baby feels at home and in a safe environment. Held babies are happy babies. They cry less and sleep better when they are worn in a carrier.

Babywearing has many benefits for parents too. You will have your arms free to complete tasks around the house, play with an older sibling, or get some exercise. You can wear baby while running errands and everyone will complement you on juggling the tasks of parenthood and looking good while doing it. Parents who wear their baby are able to handle parenting with ease.

Parents and babies bond early and easily with the art of babywearing. As you gaze into your baby’s eyes, kiss her on the forehead, and go about your daily routine together, you will form an incredible bond with your baby, moments that will last forever.

There are many modern advantages to babywearing, but as you start to wear your baby you will discover what many parents throughout the ages have known: it just feels right to have your baby close to your heart.

Written by: Emily Vedra

Resources: Babywearing by Maria Blois and The Baby Book by Dr. William Sears