Wear Your Baby, Michigan!

What does it mean to wear your baby?

I’m glad you asked! When we talk about wearing your baby, or babywearing, we mean carrying your baby with you using a baby carrier as you go about your life. Baby carriers come in all shapes and sizes, from a simple piece of cloth to a structured backpack for baby. There really are hundreds of different options, and there is one for you!

So why wear my baby?

There are probably as many reasons to wear your baby as there are babywearers. However here are some of our favorite reasons:

1. Wearing your baby is convenient!
   Get a quick load of laundry thrown in, or negotiate a busy shopping mall without struggling with the stroller. There are many situations when babywearing makes everyday life more convenient.
2. Wearing your baby promotes her physical development.
   When your baby rides in a sling attached to your body, she is in tune with the rhythm of your breathing, the sound of your heartbeat, and the movements you make – walking, bending, reaching. This stimulation helps her regulate her own physical responses, and also exercises her vestibular system, which controls balance. The sling is in essence a “transitional womb” for the new baby, who has difficulty controlling her bodily functions and movements. Premature babies who are touched and held gain weight faster and are healthier than babies who are not. Mechanical swings and other holding devices do not provide these same benefits.
3. Babies worn in slings are happier.
   Studies have shown that the more babies are held, the less they cry and fuss. Babies who are not wasting their energy on crying are calmly observing and learning about their environment. Baby-wearing is particularly useful for colicky or “high needs” babies who are far happier being worn, but even the placid, content child will benefit from the warmth and security of being held close.
4. Baby-wearing is good exercise for you!
   It’s hard to find time to exercise when you are a new mother, but if you carry your baby around with you most of the day or go for a brisk walk with your baby in her sling, you will be doing your body good. A long walk in the sling is also an excellent way to put a child to sleep.
5. It’s fun to wear your baby.
   Who doesn’t love to cuddle a downy-headed, sweet-smelling little baby? And when your baby is older, having her in the sling makes conversations easier and allows you to observe her reactions to the wonders of the world around her. It’s also fun for baby, because when she is up at eye level, other adults notice and interact with her a lot. Your child will feel more a part of your life when she is in her sling, and you will find yourself becoming more and more enchanted with your special little person.