As humans we are carry mammals, we have a natural urge to carry our babies, from the moment they are born.
In order to successfully keep their offspring alive our ancestors over the centuries would have had to carry their babies on their back. During the daytime when mum had to tend to the animals and crops she would have carried her baby on her front or back, making breastfeeding and care of the easier, while keeping baby close and safe.
Human babies and most if not the most, vulnerable of infants, unable to run away from danger, they are solely reliant on the adults to keep thim alive.
As carry mammals we need to feed our babies at regular intervals, so keeping them as close to us as possible is best.
Bonding with our baby and supporting communication with the baby
Keeping our babies close means we can feel, smell, and touch our babies, tapping into our ancient brain and supporting bonding. This can also support and reduce postnatal depression.
One is able to chat, smile, kiss and communicate with the baby at eye level again further promoting bonding and learning.
All of this supports and encourages attachment between the baby and the adult.
Mind and body regulation
Being in close contact our core systems sync, our heartbeat, temperature, breathing. Stress levels decrease, as the baby feels safe keeping us in our parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), also known as rest and digestion.
Babies in the PNS feed better, we create more milk, as oxytocin is high and stress hormones lower.
Better sleep
Babies generally sleep better during contact naps, baby wearing lets the baby have that contact with their adult where the swaying and movement of the adult is close to the movement they experienced while in the womb. The adult is able to go around their day to day life at the same time for example, go for a walk, interact with older children or do the household chores
Encourages and Facilitates breastfeeding, and reducing colic
When a baby is close to us, we are able to pick up and act upon their feeding cues so much easier and quicker. As one is more likely to feed their baby more responsively, milk production is supported and more milk is made. The upright position supports the baby against colic, and the movement of the adult helps to move any trapped wind. Furthermore, being upright means the baby is not on their back, so flattening of the head is less likely and the baby's head, neck, core and back strength and muscles are developed and conditioned.
Babies are happier when in the arms of their adult. Feeling safe from ‘predators’, meaning less crying, babies are soothed quicker which supports their emotional and cognitive health of both adults and child.
As the baby gets older, they are able to see and interact with their surroundings better.
I found it a great help when 2 became 3 children, being able to hold the hand of each child and knowing the baby was safe on my front.
Baby wearing, when done right is truly a beautiful thing, and one of the things I miss.
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