The Benefits and Risks of Baby Wearing

There are many benefits associated with baby wearing, but there are also hidden dangers that are important to consider. Parents who use baby slings must be aware of external hazards in the environment, relating to floor or ground conditions such as curbs, debris, icy sidewalks, and also need a little more space to turn around to avoid bumping the baby into counters and doorways. As the baby has more freedom of movement and is closer to the adult point of view in a sling, parents must also watch to prevent the baby from grabbing hot drinks or other dangerous items.

Many sling users have found that it is easier on the back and shoulders than carrying their infant in a bassinet, as the weight of the child is spread more evenly across the upper body.

In general, when wearing a baby parents need to stay attentive to the baby's interaction with the environment. Carriers must be fit snugly and properly to avoid an active baby wiggling out, and it is generally recommended with most carriers to avoid wearing an uncooperative child on the back.

Some of the advantages include:

  • Forming a more intimate bond with your baby as a result of the constant close contact.
  • Your baby will have a calmer temperament as it is in constant contact with a parent and their essential emotional needs are met.
  • Better developed social skills as your baby is at face level with other adults and can therefore study facial expressions, and language.
  • Improves security of an unruly child in crowded area as your child is in constant contact.
  • Baby slings allow good positioning for breastfeeding.
  • Slings allow 2 hands to be free for doing other tasks.

Risks associated include:

  • The baby slipping out of a poorly tied sling.
  • Bumping the child or doorways or benches whilst they are attached to the wearer.
  • The child grasping hazardous items available at ‘adult level’.
  • Overheating as a result of the wearers body heat combined with unnecessary layers of baby clothes.

Remember - Always practice using the sling before putting the infant in for the first time.