Babywearing Is Not A Trend
Babywearing isn’t a new fad because mothers around the world have wrapped and carried babies on their backs and hips for centuries. Beyond function and safety, babywearing reinforces the bond in parenthood and gives the mother freedom to move and be productive in any setting.
Carriers have both minimum and maximum weights for your baby, so consider when you want to start wearing one - newborn days and throughout the first year or during toddlerhood. When shopping for a suitable carrier, sling, or wrap, make sure it comfortably fits different bodies if used by another parent or caregiver. As for positioning, some carriers allow the baby to be seated in multiple ways, including front inward facing, front outer facing, on the hip, and on the back.
Wraps and slings adjust to baby and parent’s comfort levels. Baby’s head should be close enough to kiss and rest on the chest with an open airway for breathing. Make sure there is enough room for your baby’s proper hip alignment as legs should be separated with the hips and knees bent. Parents must be careful when bending down and balance baby’s weight with their core strength. Rebecca Pinckard, 27, of Jackson uses the Moby wrap and Infantino carrier for 8-week-old son Simeon and considers them both safe. “When walking down the steps, I’m really careful. He’s safer than when I’m carrying him in my arms,” Pinckard said. “I have no back problems, but I try to make sure the wrap or carrier is snug and not pulling anywhere. Moby’s carrier evenly distributes weight on my shoulders.”
There are different types of carriers made from various materials, washable ones are a plus. Large sized fabrics make for easy wrapping and carrying of infants. Ring slings and wraps are also ideal for newborns and versatile for breastfeeding on the go. Structured and hybrid carriers are like book bags with adjustable straps, clips, and padding that give support in every developmental stage. Hip seats are for when babies get older and are better able to support their heads and necks, but they are not hands-free. Backpack carriers are sturdy enough for toddlers and useful for outdoor excursions.
It takes a quick Internet search for new moms to find the best brands in babywearing. Well-known wraps are Moby ring sling, Boba, Baby K’tan, and ErgoBaby. Carriers include Infantino, Baby Björn, TULA (for toddlers), TwinGo (for twins), Tushbaby hip seat and Boppy comfy fit hybrid. For active parents on hiking trips, the Osprey Poco child carrier is one example.
With so many options, leave room for trial and error when seeking baby’s proper fit and mom’s comfort. Babywearing on the back is possible for babies and toddlers born with defects or developmental delays affecting ability to sit unassisted. That extra support keeps them safe and moms are still able to monitor breathing and positioning.
AnnClaire McCain, 29, of Jackson wears the Modal Wild Bird ring sling for 4-month-old daughter Lucy, who doesn’t prefer the ErgoBaby carrier. Babywearing calms Lucy when fussy and provides them bonding time during McCain’s chores. “She’ll reach out and we’ll hold hands. I can kiss her cheek and forehead. She’s so happy to be in the sling and close to me,” McCain said. “Early on, being skin-to-skin was important. I feel like it calms her down so much and it’s so good for my heart to have her close.”
Parents can learn and practice babywearing with a consultant, and those who become passionate can be certified by the Center for Babywearing Studies. Facebook groups are convenient for tips and reviews, not to mention sales of used carriers and advertisements for babywearing classes. On Facebook, Jackson area moms can request to join the private Central Mississippi Babywearing group facilitated by local doula and prenatal yoga instructor Cassandra Newman.
Licensed clinical social worker Niketa Pechan, 30, prefers using a large fabric wrap for 3-year-old daughter Majesty and 18-month-old Aslan. The Jackson resident promotes babywearing when counseling mothers in her practice, Golden Aura Wellness Co., and she likes teaching African dance while babywearing.
“During counseling, I explain that you were carrying your child for nine months. At 2 and 3 months old, the baby depends on you and all they need is safety and to feel comfortable with mom,” said Pechan, regarding mental health benefits. “They hear your heartbeat, so staying close to you is all they know.”
Terricha Phillips loves Jesus and good books, being a mom of two sweet children and home cooking with her husband James. Living in Jackson for 10 years left an indelible impression on her life, because it is where she matured into motherhood.
