Have you ever heard someone say that babywearing is bad for your baby’s development, or that it increases the risk of SIDS? If so, then don’t worry—you’re not alone. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths floating around out there about babywearing and its effects on babies. Here we will look at five of the most common myths and set the record straight once and for all.
The Truth Behind Most Common Babywearing Myths
Babywearing has been around for centuries, yet there still seems to be a number of misconceptions about it. From “it will spoil your baby” to “it’s not safe”, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction when it comes to babywearing. That’s why we’ve put together this blog post; to debunk the 5 most common babywearing myths and set the record straight!
Myth- Babywearing is Difficult
Not true! With a little practice, babywearing becomes second nature. Plus, there are plenty of tutorials available online that can help you find the perfect carrier or wrap for your needs. Once you have the basics down, it’s just a matter of getting comfortable with the process. And don’t worry—you’ll get there in no time!
Myth-Baby carriers are only for newborns
False! You can wear babies from birth until they reach their maximum weight capacity (which varies depending on the carrier type). There are even some brands that offer adjustable straps so that you can adjust as your child grows. Be sure to check with the manufacturer guidelines before purchasing a carrier or wrap for an older infant or toddler.
Myth- Babywearing is only for mothers
False! Fathers can wear their babies just as easily as moms can. In fact, there are several studies that show how beneficial it is for fathers to bond with their babies through babywearing. It’s not just a mom thing; dads can benefit from this too!
Myth- You should wait until your baby is 6 months old before you start wearing them
Also false! There are several types of carriers that are designed specifically for newborns and preemies, so you can start wearing your little one as soon as they’re born if you’d like. Just make sure to use a carrier that is safe and age-appropriate for your little one.
Myth- Babywearing leads to attachment parenting
Not necessarily true! While some parents do use babywearing as part of an attachment parenting style, there are plenty of parents who choose to wear their babies without subscribing to any particular parenting philosophy or style. Ultimately, it’s up to each individual parent to decide how they want to raise their child—and whether or not they want to include babywearing in their parenting routine.
Myth- It Will Spoil Your Baby
Carrying your baby does not spoil them! In fact, it does quite the opposite; it helps them learn important lessons like trust and independence. When babies are securely held by their parent, they develop a feeling of security which allows them to explore their environment without fear or hesitation. So don’t worry; carrying your baby won’t turn them into a spoiled brat!
Myth- Carrying Your Baby Too Much Will Hurt Your Back/Shoulders
While it’s true that carrying a heavy load can put strain on your body, this doesn’t mean that you have to stop wearing your baby altogether! As long as you use the right ergonomic carrier or wrap and make sure that the weight is evenly distributed between your shoulders and hips, then there’s no need to worry about hurting yourself while carrying your little one around. It’s also important to remember to take regular breaks throughout the day if necessary!
Myth- Carriers Are Expensive/Difficult To Use
There are certainly more expensive carriers out there but there are also plenty of affordable options available too!
Myth- Babywearing Increases Risk of SIDS
This myth is one of the most pervasive ones out there about babywearing—but it couldn’t be further from the truth. In reality, wearing your baby close to you can actually help reduce your child’s risk of SIDS—this is because when a child is held close to their parent, they tend to sleep more deeply than when they are sleeping alone (which means less risk of waking up due to a noise or other stimuli). So if you’re worried about safety while wearing your little one, rest assured that it’s actually safer than leaving them alone!
Myth- It’s Too Hot To Wear Your Baby In The Summer
This might be true if you live in an area where temperatures soar regularly throughout summer months; however with breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen-based carriers designed specifically for hot weather climates, this doesn’t have to be an issue at all! In fact, many parents find wearing their babies during hot weather more comfortable than pushing a stroller due to enhanced air circulation!
Read more: What to do for neck and shoulder pain from carrying baby
Myth- You can’t do anything while wearing your baby
This myth couldn’t be more wrong! While it’s true that some activities may need extra preparation or caution when wearing a baby (such as running or exercising), there are still plenty of everyday activities that can easily be done while wearing your baby – grocery shopping, cooking dinner, going for a walk…you get the idea! With practice and experience, even the most active parents can learn how to safely do just about anything with their little one strapped onto their chest or back.
Myth – It takes too long to put on a carrier
Not so! Once you get used to putting on the carrier, you can do it in no time at all – usually within 30 seconds or less! There are also many types of carriers available today designed specifically for quick and easy use; so don’t let this myth keep you from trying out babywearing with your little one.
Myth- You Can’t Breastfeed While Wearing Your Baby
Another myth bites the dust! Breastfeeding while wearing your baby is totally doable and can actually make nursing easier for some moms; it helps keep your little one at the proper height so you don’t have to strain yourself by bending down or lifting them up higher than necessary. Plus, your hands are free so you can multitask if needed (e.g., checking emails or scrolling through Instagram). Just make sure you have a good latch before getting started!
Myth- You Need A Fancy Carrier To Wear Your Baby
It’s true that there are lots of different types of carriers on the market these days, but fancy doesn’t necessarily equal better when it comes to babywearing. In fact, you can use wraps, slings, mei tais, pouches—even blankets—to carry your little one safely and comfortably without breaking the bank! You can even find DIY tutorials online if you want to try making your own wrap or sling at home.
Myth- Baby Carriers are Dangerous for Baby’s Spine
A common fear among parents is that strapping a baby into a carrier can be dangerous for their developing spine. However, as long as you have an ergonomically designed carrier (one that supports your baby in a natural fetal position) and follow instructions for proper use, there is no scientific evidence that suggests these carriers cause harm to your little one’s spine development.
Myth- It Will Ruin My Posture”
Carrying around anything—be it a heavy bag or an infant—can lead to bad posture if done incorrectly or too frequently throughout the day. However, choosing the right carrier can actually help improve posture by evenly distributing weight across both shoulders and torso. Additionally, ergonomic carriers support your baby close enough so that you don’t feel like you need to bend over or lean forward when carrying them around which helps keep the spine straight and helps reduce fatigue throughout the day for both mom and dad!
Myth- Baby carriers will disrupt their sense of independence
This is one of the oldest – and most enduring – myths about babywearing. But fear not, dear parents! There’s nothing wrong with carrying your baby as long as you don’t do it all day every day. In fact, studies show that babies who are carried often can actually become more independent because they learn to trust their parents and feel secure in their environment. Plus, carrying your baby allows them to interact with the world around them which is essential for development.
Read more: Best Baby Carrier For Petite Mom
Myth- Babies fall from the carrier and get injured
This is simply not true; with proper use of a sling or carrier, parents can feel secure in the knowledge that their little one is safe. Babywearing has been used for generations as a way to keep infants close while freeing up our hands. By following the manufacturer’s instructions, only using carriers meant for infants, and making sure they are secured properly, you can trust that your precious bundle of joy will remain safe!
Myth- A baby capable of running should not be carried
We’ve all heard the old wive’s tale about believing that carrying a baby who is already capable of walking will stunt their mobility and physical development, but fret not – this belief is nothing more than a big, fat myth. In fact, for centuries cultures around the world have turned to babywearing as a protective measure for their offspring, ensuring that babies thrive mentally, physically and emotionally. There’s nothing wrong with allowing your little one to spread those wings – or rather those legs – and take their first steps on their own terms; however, remember that strapping them close to you should remain an option in moments when they want it most – like after a long stroll at the park!
Myth- Babywearing Is Just A Passing Fad:
This couldn’t be further from the truth! As mentioned earlier in this blog post—babywearing has been around for centuries! It’s still very much alive today due its countless benefits (like convenience) which means it doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere anytime soon!
Myth- Baby Carrier Brands Are All The Same:
When looking for a baby carrier, don’t assume all brands are created equal; in fact, there are several key details (like material quality) that can make or break the safety and comfort of a certain brand or model of carrier. Do your research ahead of time so you know what features will work best for your family as well as what brands have good reputations among other parents who have used them before.
Myth- Babywearing Is Unsafe:
This is by far one of the most common misconceptions about babywearing. It’s important to remember that as long as you are using a carrier that meets industry standards and have your little one properly secured in it, there should be no safety concerns. In fact, many experts believe that having babies close to their parents can actually help them feel more secure and grounded. However, dovetailing off of this myth, it is important to note that unsafe practices like carrying your baby while riding a bike or skateboard should always be avoided.
Myth-Babywearing Causes Hip Dysplasia
This myth comes from the idea that carrying your baby in a carrier puts too much pressure on their hips, which can lead to hip dysplasia and other hip issues. However, if you use a baby carrier recommended by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute, you can easily avoid any potential hip misalignment. Just make sure to keep your baby in an upright and ergonomic position, with knees higher than their bottom and legs spread wide.
Read More: Best baby carrier for hip dysplasia
Myth- Babywearing is Only for Parents
Babywearing isn’t just for parents – anyone can wear their little one, from siblings to grandparents and beyond! Whether you’re going out for a walk or running errands around town, babywearing allows others to easily and securely carry your baby. Just make sure to always follow safety guidelines and use a carrier that is designed for newborns or infants.
All in all, many of these myths surrounding babywearing are just that—myths—and shouldn’t be taken seriously. Remember; as long as you follow safety guidelines and wear an appropriate ergonomic carrier or wrap then there’s nothing stopping you from enjoying all the benefits of wearing your little one around town (or even just around the house!) So go ahead and give it a try today; we guarantee that neither of you will regret it!
