Babywearing 101:
What Is Babywearing?
Babywearing is the practice of carrying your baby or young child close to your body using a baby carrier, wrap, or sling. While babywearing has deep cultural roots around the world, it’s also a modern parenting tool that allows caregivers to bond with their little ones while staying hands-free.
Beyond convenience, babywearing supports your baby’s need for closeness, comfort, and security, while also giving caregivers the freedom to move through daily life—whether that’s working, cooking, or chasing after older kids.
The Benefits of Babywearing
- Connection: Promotes bonding and helps regulate baby’s emotions, heart rate, and body temperature.
- Comfort: Many babies cry less and sleep more when worn.
- Convenience: Hands-free carrying means you can get things done while keeping your baby close.
- Development: Supports healthy physical and emotional development through closeness and proper positioning.
- Community: Babywearing connects you with parents around the world and across generations.
The ABCs of Safe Babywearing
When we talk about safe babywearing, we often use the ABCs as an easy way to remember key safety points:
- A = Airway
Always keep baby’s airway clear. Their chin should be off their chest, and their face should be visible. - B = Body Positioning
Baby should be supported in a natural, ergonomic position—knees higher than bottom in an “M” shape, with back supported. - C = Comfort for Caregiver and Baby
The carrier should feel supportive, secure, and comfortable for both of you. Adjust until you both feel good.