You've heard all sorts,
here are a few myth debunked...
Urban legends
- Carrying your baby too much will spoil them…
- Here’s a clear NO.
You don’t need to worry about spoiling your baby by carrying them too much, and here’s why:
* Being carried gives your baby a sense of security and comfort.
* Physical contact is just as fundamental a need as eating, sleeping, and staying clean.
* Carrying naturally strengthens the bond between the baby and parents.
* Your baby is born with instincts dating back to prehistoric times, where being left alone was synonymous with danger.
* In the upright position used while being carried, your baby’s spine can fulfill its natural function.
* Hip development is also naturally supported through carrying.
* A baby simply cannot be spoiled at this age.
Additionally, the need for carrying changes over time. It’s completely normal for a newborn to want to be carried often. An older baby who’s becoming mobile and eager to explore the world will naturally want to be carried less.
Carry your baby as long and as often as it feels right for both of you. Your intuition and instincts will guide you toward what’s best.
- There are babies who do not want to be carried.
- NO – Babies are naturally designed to be carried. As soon as you lift a baby, their legs instinctively fold into the natural carrying position. This reflex indicates that babywearing fulfills a natural need of your baby.
If a baby refuses to be carried, several factors might be involved:
* Inappropriate carrier: The carrier used might not be suitable for the baby’s size or needs.
* Thermal discomfort: The baby might be too hot or too cold.
* Hunger: The baby might need to feed before feeling comfortable in the carrier.
* Physical or medical issues: Persistance resistance could indicate a physical or medical problem, such as a blockage.
* Other factors: The baby may also have a desire to move or need comfort.
It’s important to check these aspects to ensure that carrying is pleasant and beneficial for the baby.
- Children who are carried a lot cry less.
- YES – THIS IS TRUE: Physical contact is a fundamental need for your baby, just like feeding and sleeping. Regular carrying meets this essential need making your baby feel secure and comforted.
Why is physical contact so important?
Satisfaction of fundamental needs: Carrying meets a primary need of the baby, reducing crying and fussing that may occur when this need is unmet.
Security and comfort: Constant contact with a parent or trusted person helps create a secure and reassuring environment for the baby.
Frequent carrying contributes to your baby’s emotional and physical well-being by fulfilling this fundamental need for contact. This can reduce stress and anxiety in the baby, making them calmer and more serene.
- A baby can only be carried on the back once they can sit up on their own.
- NO – With the right technique, even a very young baby, including a newborn, can be safely and comfortably carried on the back. This method can offer several benefits and meet various needs:
Benefits of back carrying:
Twins: For families with twins, carrying one baby on the back from the start can make managing both children easier.
Postnatal depression: Back carrying can support mothers experiencing postnatal depression by providing physical contact and strengthening the bond with the baby.
Siblings: When a mother has older kids, back carrying allows her to attend to them while keeping the baby close.
Household tasks: Back carrying can facilitate household chores or other activities, providing more freedom and comfort.
By using an appropriate carrying technique, you can safely carry your baby on your back while enjoying the practical and emotional benefits of this method.
- A baby can be carried in a stretchy wrap up to a maximum weight of 6 kilos.
- NO – A baby can be carried in a stretchy wrap as long as it remains comfortable for both the mother and the baby. The key is to choose a quality wrap and use the appropriate carrying technique.
Points to consider:
Choice of wrap: The quality of stretchy wraps varies significantly among manufacturers. It is essential to select a wrap that provides adequat support and comfort for you and your baby.
Carrying technique: Proper technique is crucial for ensuring the baby’s comfort and safety. Make sure you are familiar with the correct methods for using wrap effectively.
By carefully selecting a quality wrap and employing the right techniques, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience in the elastic wrap for as long as it remains pleasant for both of you."