Caring for an infant is not always a walk in the park. For some, this may mean limited movement and activities, as they could not leave the baby unsupervised at any given time. For others, this may mean having to constantly comfort a child that cries when you’re not within his sight or reach.
At the end of the day, we’ll see a lot of unhappy parents that are just too tired and stressed yet would still keep holding on to what’s left of their wits just for their little ones. So what can you do? Try babywearing.
Babywearing might sound like a fairly recent fashion and parenting fad, but in reality, this has been practiced by many cultures for ages. Methods, tools, and designs may have varied leading today, but its main function and benefits remain the same. It creates a stronger bond between parent and child as their bodies are constantly touching.
How does it create a stronger bond?
As the child’s body is pressed against yours, your hearts’ rhythms will beat as one. The constant skin contact will also provide the child with the assurance that you will always be there and that they are safe at all times. This sense of security and love will give them comfort.
What if the sling fails? I’m afraid.
As mentioned, there are various designs and babywearing types that you can choose from. You can decide which on you feel connects to you the most. Tying it up securely is easy, and if you’re in doubt with the instructions, you can always check on tutorial videos online and see how it’s actually done.
You know it’s secure if the baby snugly fits in its pocket and is tightly held against your body.
How will this help the parents?
Think of it this way, when you babywear, you won’t need to worry about the baby every minute of the day as you attend to other tasks or activities. You will always be there if they need you—literally. You can do household tasks, go shopping, do your taxes, and even attend a meeting when you babywear.
Your hands will be free to do what you need to do without having to worry about pushing a stroller or keeping it out of other people’s ways. And when you have nothing else to do or just want to hold your baby, just reach up to your chest and hold or caress him as he is snuggling tightly against you.
Moms are not the only ones who will benefit from babywearing. In fact, it is also encouraged for dads to practice this to create a strong bond with their children at an early age. Not only is this a good way to keep your baby close to you at all times, it also allows you the freedom to do other things as opposed to just being confined in one space or constantly having to stare at a baby monitor.
