Why Wear that Baby?

I've been mentioning more frequently how we've gotten into "babywearing". Brennan seems to love the wrap and calms down within minutes once he's in it (usually). We also have a sling which seems beneficial, too (although I have a hunch he'll enjoy that more in the near future)

So for your interest (and posting for my own reference), here are benefits of babywearing:

- Babywearing enables the mother to be acutely aware of her baby's cues and signals and heightens her perception of her child's needs
- Babywearing reduces crying and fussiness by up to 51%, with parents feeling more competent and nurturing toward their children.
- Being in close physical contact with a parent provides a baby with a rich learning environment where all of their most important needs can be met - food, warmth, love and touch
- Babies who are carried learn more, stimulating brain development and expanding their future learning potential.
- Babywearing increases cardiac output, improves circulation, promotes respiration and aids in digestion. (huge one for us!)
- Babywearing provides the exact level and kind of stimulation an infant requires, energizing their nervous system and creating a quiet, calm alertness in the infant.
- Babywearing decreases the levels of stress hormones circulating in a baby's blood stream, resulting in a more relaxed, happy baby
- Frequently carried babies fall asleep quickly and will usually sleep deeper and for longer periods of time in the comfort of their sling.
- Babywearing develops the muscles needed for the infant to sit, stand and walk.
- Babywearing enhances motor skills by stimulating the baby's vestibular system (balance organs) by exposing the baby to a variety of sights, sounds and motion,.
- Babies worn in slings feel safe and secure which helps to foster a solid sense of self.
- Babywearing offers easy access to the infant's food source - mothers' breast milk, without having to stop or sit down.