The Art And Joys Of Babywearing

Strollers, cars and arms are not the only methods of child transportation. In malls, at parks and nearly anywhere you look, you'll spot babies and even toddlers blissfully strapped to adults. Babywearing is making a comeback.

It's an ancient custom practiced around the world. Here in the United States, parents are finally realizing the benefits.

Babywearing involves having a child in a carrying device attached to your body. The benefits are numerous.

Most obvious is the hands-free aspect, leaving you able to carry your baby while doing housework, talking on the phone or chasing an older child. If your baby likes to be held a lot, baby carriers distribute the weight around more of your body, alleviating arm strain. Use common sense, of course. For example, never wear a baby within reach of a hot stove or pot.

For many babies, especially newborns, being worn is comforting. Babywearing keeps them snuggled to your body and allows your natural body rhythm and warmth to comfort them. This mimics the feel of the womb, resulting in a content baby who cries less, much to the exhausted parent's delight. Colicky babies, in particular, can benefit from the soothing nature of babywearing.

Babywearing is exercise. Pushing a stroller is work, but take a long walk with a baby strapped to your back, and you're sure to gain muscle strength and burn calories.

Babywearing allows for discreet breastfeeding. It can be tough to get the hang of breastfeeding while wearing your baby, but once you master it, you can breastfeed without anyone even knowing what you're doing. This helps avoid unwanted and uncomfortable stares.

Numerous baby carriers are available. Most people are familiar with the Baby Bjorn and similar devices. These structured carriers are available in many stores, are easy to use, and can be adjusted for different sized people, allowing moms and dads to partake in babywearing using just one device. Some are designed for front carrying positions, excellent for young infants. Others allow for hip and back carries, which work well for older babies and toddlers.

Pouches, slings, wraps and Mei Tais have fewer bells and whistles but are popular. Many come in beautiful fabrics, so you can showcase your sense of style.

Pouches, slings and wraps are versatile and work for babies of different ages. You can carry a newborn tummy-to-tummy or in the newborn cradle position, both of which are comforting to a little one. As your baby grows, you can try different positions, including front and back holds. Slings and pouches have fairly easy learning curves. Wraps, which are long pieces of fabric by which you tie the baby to your body, may seem intimidating, but many websites can walk you through the process. Wraps are among the most versatile baby carriers available.

Mei Tais are Asian-inspired carriers. They hold the baby in a sitting position, similar to many store-bought structured carriers, but without having the baby dangling by the crotch, which may not be as healthy or comfortable. Some structured carriers also have the baby seated, rather than dangling.

Babywearing is an old and practical art resurrected. With countless options to choose from and endless benefits, it's one that's surely here to stay.

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