Last week, I wrote about my youngest daughter’s favorite things, and among them was her baby sling. I must admit, it’s become a favorite not just for baby, but also for mom and dad as well. It’s part of our travel necessities, even for a simple trip to the mall. For readers who have infants or are expecting, I seriously suggest that you study the benefits of babywearing.
Babywearing is the term used for carrying your baby in a sling or a baby carrier. I know most parents already have a baby stroller or carriage, but a baby sling can be more convenient and useful than a baby stroller. It’s less bulky, more compact and lighter than a stroller, which is helpful when you want to maximize space and weight for packing. Unlike strollers or baby carriages which would be another item in your baggage, you can just stuff your baby sling inside your bag. It can also go places where a stroller can’t go (especially for tight or crowded spaces), and baby is safer and more secure since she’s closer to you. In fact there are a whole lot of benefits to babywearing.
It’s good for mommy and daddy
Using a baby sling will give you the freedom to use your hands, for one thing. It also eases back and shoulder pain of the wearer, if worn correctly. And if you have the type of baby who likes to be carried constantly, your baby sling will rescue you from arm pain. Baby slings are also very useful for breastfeeding moms, especially if you’re breastfeeding in public. The long tail hides the baby, and the baby can be positioned in such a way that you can feed him hands-free. Now that my daughter drinks from the bottle, I’ve found that I can feed her even while walking, since the sling carries the full weight of my baby, freeing my right hand to hold the bottle, and the left to support her head. Best of all, babywearing promotes bonding for baby and parent. Dad can carry baby around and let baby learn the sound of his voice and the feel of his body.
(to be continued next post)