There are a huge number of toddler slings and carriers available on the market and many parents find them to be invaluable.
Babywearing is an extremely common way of carrying a baby. In fact, many parents opt for a good quality baby wrap or sling as a priority rather than a pram.
Many new mums will even begin babywearing when they are still in the maternity hospital.
There are a number of reasons why babywearing can be a really positive experience. It can be helpful for babies who are experiencing reflux, for example.
These babies may respond better to an upright position and a carrier allows for that position while Mum and Dad can get on with other aspects of the day at the same time.
Babies who are carried in a sling often cry less and appear more content and this is steeped in the fact that infants like to be close to their parents. Simply knowing that Mum or Dad is nearby is enough to help them to sleep more peacefully and appear more relaxed in general.
This can make life a lot easier for parents particularly when they have other children to look after also. It can really contribute to the baby's positive emotional development as their needs are responded to immediately when they are always close by. It promotes attachment and this has so much to offer both parent and baby.
The word babywearing might suggest that it is only for babies but a lot of people are “baby” wearing their toddlers. There are a huge number of toddler slings and carriers available on the market and many parents find them to be invaluable.
It may seem unusual to other people - particularly when a child is capable of walking and they are a lot heavier - however, there are plenty of benefits to babywearing a toddler.
1. Babywearing a toddler can lead to a very content child as they crave physical contact and reassurance from their parents. Being carried in a sling can offer this comfort in so many different ways.
2. It can very soothing to a toddler who is teething, tired or feeling ill. The swaying motion from being carried can help them feel calm when they otherwise feel miserable. It means that parents can make dinner or tend to other household chores while still supporting their little one.
3. It can help them sleep. Your toddler may not be a great sleeper but five minutes in a sling is enough to send them into a deep and peaceful sleep. Many parents develop their own unique way of transferring a toddler from the sling to the cot, bed or couch. It’s a skill!
4. It is a safe way to hold your little wanderer in public places. They are free to look around, ask questions and explore without getting into danger.
5. Toddlers get tired. If you’ve planned a family hike or a day at the park little legs will get tired pretty quickly. Having a sling at your disposal means that it’s business as normal when they become tired. You can simply pop them in a sling and continue.
6. Many places are not buggy friendly. Carrying your toddler in a sling can make it a lot easier to enjoy more outdoor spaces and markets for example.
Tracey is a happy mammy to four-year-old Billy. She is a breastfeeder, gentle parent and has recently lost five stone so healthy family eating is her passion! You can find her at www.loveofliving.ie.
