Before the arrival of my first daughter, I honestly had no idea what to expect. I did my research and stocked up on all the products that seemed ‘necessary’, plus a good few extras that I loved the look of!
I had the pram ready to go, I knew we would use this all the time, and I also bought a structured carrier for when we were out and about and it was easier, though I had zero clue how to use one.
After Cassie arrived, I soon learned just how important those beginning days and weeks with a newborn really are – and also just how challenging they can be. Trying to settle a baby while making dinner. Trying to settle a baby who doesn’t want to sleep. Trying to settle a baby who is overtired. Trying to settle a baby who just wants to be cuddled.
It was an endless cycle of me fighting to get her to sleep in her cot, before a friend introduced us to the baby wrap. It was a game changer.
Unlike the structured carrier we had purchased, this one was nice and soft, and literally felt like a giant hug against her. I could get things done around the home, while Cassie slept the day away against me. The fighting against sleep stopped. Everything got much easier.
Fast-forward a couple of years and I have learned a lot in the process, and while I don’t regret our initial choice of carriers, I have certainly added to the pile since then. When it comes to life with a young baby, a baby carrier really is a must. Sure, in those early days you are caught up in that gorgeous newborn bubble where you could hold your little one in your arms all day long. But then life catches up with you and suddenly it seems impossible to get anything done. Babywearing allows you to do just that with your little one snuggled up against you, leaving your hands free for other things. With my second baby now on the way, my focus has turned to getting me through those initial months.
There are so many different types of carriers on the market too, so you can easily find one that suits both your needs. From ring slings to structured carriers, onbuhimos and more, it’s important to do your research and even ask other mums for tips.
Here are just some of the benefits of babywearing:
Bond
It strengthens that bond between baby and parent (mum, dad or carer). It’s important to realise that once a baby is born, it takes them a while to adjust to life outside the womb. They are used to be being attached to you, and suddenely their comfort, and what they have known for the past nine months is gone. Babywearing in that fourth trimester can help them feel secure and safe.
Decreases Flat Head Syndrome
In those early weeks, this is something parents are on the look out for. Flat head Syndrome occurs when a flat spot develops on the back or side of a baby’s head. Having them up in a carrier, instead of sleep in their cot or bassinet the whole time, can help prevent this.
Great for Tummy Time
Many people don’t realise this, but developing your baby’s neck control doesn’t mean you have to pop them on the floor for tummy time all the time. Having your baby in a carrier is a great, supportive way to develop their neck and head control and you will notice the difference as the weeks go on.
Boost Milk Production
That’s right, having bub right next to your breasts can actually boost your production of milk.
Get Stuff Done
Of course, this is a big one, it gives you the chance to get stuff done. You have your hands free to get on with your day, without the added stress of trying to settle your little one. Creates a much calmer environment for both of you.
With the addition of baby number 2 to your family, you will realise just how useful babywearing can really be. As you chase after your older child, you can simply strap the new addition to you and have your hands free as much as possible.
Those first few weeks of life are important for developing a strong bond between you and your new arrival. Babywearing is a great way to aid this process.
Felicity is mum to her two daughters, Cassandra (3.5) and Vivienne (21 months) and her son Elliot (2 months). Her passion is the parenting industry and creating a community where everyone feels welcome no matter how they choose to parent. It is this passion that led to the creation of The Baby Vine.
