The following are a few of the many reasons parents elect to "wear" their babies. William and Martha Sears, authors of The Baby Book, coined this term.
Breast Feeding
One great thing about a baby sling is that nursing can be done in public while affording the mother her privacy. The sling can be pulled up quite high in the front, hiding the baby and the mother's upper body. It is possible to nurse a baby in the sling without others even being aware of it.In addition to privacy, nursing at home is made easier with the sling. The baby is already in position to nurse, and the mother does not have to put down what she is doing in order to put the baby in place.
Colic
Some studies show that crying and colic can be lessened by holding a baby close to the skin. By hearing and feeling Mom or Dad's heartbeat, the baby is soothed. The jiggling movements you make while walking around will also calm your baby.Enhanced Learning
A baby that is right in the middle of his or her parents' world is exposed to more experiences and sensory stimulation. According to experts, this exposure can help babies learn.Parent-Child Bonding
Parents and babies tend to bond more readily when they are physically close to one another. Most parents hold and cuddle their babies regularly, but being carried in a sling makes continuous contact easier to do in the middle of a busy day.Dad as a Helper
The baby's father reaps the benefits of bonding and cuddling with his baby when he takes his turn wearing the sling. This also frees up your time to perform other tasks, or simply to have a well-deserved break.There are a number of baby sling brands from which to choose. Some parents elect to make their own sling. However, if you go this route, be very careful and find a pattern that is clear and stresses safety.
Many slings have a ring just below the shoulder to adjust and hold the length securely. Other types include non-adjustable "tube" slings and tie-on "rebozo" versions. Whatever type of baby sling you choose, safety and comfort for both you and baby come first.
If purchasing a sling, try it on at the store. Place your baby inside the sling and have a friend standing by to help if needed. When positioned properly, a baby sling can be one of the safest and most comfortable ways to tote your infant. Make sure there are directions in the package and that they are very clear to you. It can be tricky to position the sling over your shoulder and place the baby in the correct way. However, after a few tries, you will be an expert.
Infants generally lie in the sling in the cradle hold. Older babies and toddlers have a variety of options for being worn, such as sitting up and facing forward, sitting up and facing the wearer, or the side sit. How a baby can be worn depends upon the baby's age, physically maturity, and head, neck, and back strength.
Never take off the sling with baby inside. You run the risk of him or her spilling right out of your arms. Lift baby out and put your baby in a secure place, then remove the sling from your shoulders. Also, never cook while holding the baby in a sling.
Which side you wear the sling on depends upon whether you are left or right handed. Try to keep your dominant hand free for tasks and for stroking your baby.
Take your time when shopping for a baby sling, and purchase the one that will be the perfect fit for both you and your baby. The right sling can make babyhood a comfortable, fun and loving experience.