Once you’re home with your baby and the routine of your new normal begins to set in, you’ll start to realize there are a lot of things you still need to get done – but now you have a little one in tow. As you begin to get into your new day-to-day groove, you may find the need to multitask particularly challenging while trying to feed and nurture your little one.
For centuries, Black women have been wearing our babies and it’s a practice that not only strengthens our bond, but also allows us to also care for other children and get everything we need to get done, done. Read on to explore everything you need to know about babywearing, safety considerations, and if it’s for you, where to start!
Navigating Your New Normal
The arrival of your baby brings joy and a bunch of changes and adjustments. Babywearing can be a game-changer during this transitional period. It allows you to keep your little one close while having your hands free to tackle daily tasks and care for other children. A lot of parents find that wearing their baby creates a sense of closeness and security, which can soothe both you and your baby.
The Benefits of Babywearing
Beyond giving you your hands back (for the most part), babywearing offers many benefits for both of you. For infants, being held close imitates the warmth and security of the womb, which can help keep their temperature and heart rate stable. Babies who are worn have been shown to cry less and sleep better. For parents, babywearing promotes bonding and allows for easier breastfeeding on the go, creating a strong emotional connection from an early age and fostering a more friendly nursing environment.
Babywearing Safety Considerations
As with most things – proper execution is key for safety. Babywearing is no different and while it is generally safe when done correctly, it’s very important to follow guidelines to ensure wearing your baby does not put their health in jeopardy.
- Always ensure your baby’s airways are clear and unobstructed, with their chin off their chest (and yours).
- Use carriers that provide enough support for their head and neck, especially for newborns.
- Make sure your baby’s legs are in a comfortable spread-squat position to prevent hip dysplasia. (This can impact development.)
- Read device instructions, watch tutorials online, and ask your doula for support to make sure you and your baby are using the carrier properly.
The acronym TICKS is a helpful reminder of the keys to safe babywearing:
Tight.
In view at all times.
Close enough to kiss.
Keep chin off the chest.
Supported back.
Finding the Right Babywearing Gear for You
There are many kinds of baby carriers to suit different needs and preferences:
- Ring slings: These are clothes with rings that allow for quick adjustments.
- Soft-structured carriers: These have padded shoulder straps and a structured seat, ideal for longer periods of wear.
- Wrap carriers: These involve wrapping a long piece of fabric around you and your baby, providing a snug and customizable fit.
Choosing the right carrier depends on a variety of factors like your baby’s age, weight, and height as well as your comfort, lifestyle, and the level of support needed. Finding carriers that are right for your body shape and the size of your baby is crucial because your comfort matters!. Additionally, selecting fabrics that are breathable and suitable for the weather where you live will only increase your comfort..
In Conclusion
Considering babywearing now? It can positively impact your daily routine and can even enrich your bond with your child. From fostering closeness and promoting emotional security to practical benefits like hands-free caregiving, babywearing does have the ability to change the newborn game.
But safety in babywearing is crucial and guidelines are key. Also, explore your options, and ask your village for support and advice! (As we said – we’ve been doing this for hundreds of years and those who came before us have the most valuable insights to share.)
Whether you’re soothing a fussy newborn or exploring the world with your curious infant, babywearing remember that every cuddle and every heartbeat shared while babywearing strengthens the bond between you and your little one, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
At Mae, we are committed to making motherhood as seamless as possible for you and your baby. Check out our other blog posts to find more helpful information about pregnancy, postpartum, and infant care. We share helpful tips on our social media too! Follow us on Instagram and Tiktok!