Many parents are now forgoing bulky prams to transport their precious cargo with the help of modern-designed baby slings. Once thought of as something only women in developing countries used, slings are now gaining popularity in affluent Western countries too.
Baby slings have been used by women for thousands of years around the world. Australian Indigenous Women wore their babies on their backs in a pouch fashioned from soft bark. Allowing the mother’s arms to be free enabled her to fulfil her daily activities. It also served to keep baby in a safe place, high off the ground, away from predators or biting insects.
But most importantly, it gave the developing baby more time to be “in-arms”, which is paramount to ensuring a close bond with the primary caregiver. Being so close, the caregiver can understand the baby’s non-verbal cues, gestures and cries, allowing her to better meet the needs of her baby.
Infants thrive both physically and cognitively from loving physical contact. This is what hunter-gatherer societies probably always knew and what recent research continues to confirm. Unfortunately over the past century, against our better judgement, many adopted the notion that too much affection would “spoil” the child.
Several studies on baby care practices in the United States concluded that babies carried in a sling for three hours a day cry forty per cent less than babies who are not often carried. This is because the baby is in “the most soothing of all environments”, according to renowned American Doctor William Sears, who promotes and educates parents on attachment-style parenting.
“Mother’s walking motion ’reminds’ baby of the rhythm he enjoyed while in the womb. The sling encircles and contains the infant, who would otherwise waste energy flinging his arms and legs around, randomly attempting to settle itself. The worn baby is only a breath away from his parent’s voice, the familiar sound he has grown to associate with feeling good,” says Dr Sears.
Using a sling is a convenient way to give baby plenty of in-arms time, even with a busy lifestyle. There are also many other benefits, including reducing colic and reflux, as the baby is held in an upright position with gentle pressure on its tummy. Being in the correct “frog position” is good for the baby’s hip joints, as they are flexed and adducted.
Carrying pre-term babies in a sling, heart-to-heart and skin-to-skin, is known as “Kangaroo care” and is a therapy used by nurses and midwives. It is recognised that being in this supportive and close environment can help a new or weak baby adjust more gently to the outside world and encourage breast-feeding.
A vast array of modern designed slings on the market means that people can chose a sling to suit their needs and budget. The classic style of carrier can snugly hold a very young newborn on the chest. Some slings are more versatile and allow the baby or small child to be carried on the back, front and on the hip, as well as having the option to breast-feed. Cloth slings are a long piece of material that cradles the baby across the chest, as if in a hammock. When the baby gets stronger, it can sit up in the sling and enjoy the social interaction.
It is important to try several different slings and choose which is most comfortable for you. Product Safety recommendations and correct positioning should always be observed. Babies in slings should always be worn over the top of parents clothing, such as jackets and heavy clothing, to avoid overheating.
The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.
