Babywearing is still something of a new concept to much of the Western World even though it’s been around for centuries.
While many more parents are choosing to have a baby carrier on hand, there are still plenty of parents (and other members of the public) who don’t see a baby carrier as an essential tool, or even think they may be harmful to a baby’s development.
Myths like this can spread quickly in the community and sometimes mean that parents and babies who might have benefited from this amazing tool then end up missing out! So it’s time we did some mythbusting! Here are some of the top babywearing myths we’ve come across recently…
You’ll spoil your baby if they’re always carried
Actually, you can’t spoil a baby at all. They’re little for such a short amount of time, and one of their greatest needs (not just wants!) is to be held close and secure to you. Spoiling a baby by loving and comforting them is a strange myth that came about in the mid 20th century… one that has been well and truly busted by today’s professionals.
Your baby won’t learn to be independent if you carry them constantly
Attachment parenting (which includes carrying and babywearing your baby) has been proven to have the opposite effect. Babies that form a secure attachment learn to become independent at a pace that they are comfortable with, leading to greater independence, stability, lowered stress, and the ability to cope better with new situations.
Your baby needs to learn how to nap in a cot – napping in the carrier might teach them bad habits
If napping in the carrier isn’t working for your family, then sure, try to transition them to a cot or bed. But if your baby naps in the carrier, it can actually be a convenient way to settle them while you’re out and about or just around the house too. It’s only a *bad*habit if you decide that it is. And don’t worry – it won’t be long and your baby will be a small toddler or child who prefers to nap in bed.
You must really overheat your baby in that carrier
Yes, sometimes a carrier can be hot. This can depend on the materials it is made of and the design of the carrier. But usually if you’re going to be in a hot climate, you choose something suitable for it (just like your clothing). You can definitely still wear your baby in the heat of summer without overheating them (see our article on Babywearing when it’s hot in summer).
Carrying your baby in a carrier will harm their hips
Carrying your baby in the optimal M position where the knees are raised higher than the bottom is hip healthy and acts as a preventative measure to ensure correct development. If someone says a carrier is harmful to a baby’s hips they are most likely misinformed. Show them the ergonomic wide base the child sits on and how this supports the natural position of your child.
Your baby didn’t like the (one) carrier you’ve tried, so they don’t like to be worn
Just because you’ve had a bad experience with a carrier, doesn’t mean you or your baby won’t get to enjoy babywearing! It might have been a range of factors leading to the experience, but it definitely doesn’t mean that your baby hates being in all carriers. Gentle persistence and positive association with the carrier helps your little one.
Your baby will suffocate in there – are you sure they can breathe?
If you know about safe babywearing practices (upright, chin off chest, airways clear, kissable head, etc.) and stay attune to your little one, you’ll be very much aware of their movements and breathing. Babies have (in the past) tragically suffocated when parents have used carriers in the cradle position, which is unsafe. Ensure your baby’s nose and mouth is unobstructed at all times.
Those baby carriers really hurt your back and shoulders
Some baby carriers can be uncomfortable, yes! But not all! In fact, most of them are really well designed with padding in just the right places. If your carrier is hurting, it might not be fitted correctly, or something else might be better suited to your frame or your baby’s size. Don’t put up with a sore back or shoulders – ask an educator for help or to try some other options.
That must be really difficult
Parenting without a baby carrier is much more difficult, trust us!
Doesn’t your baby need more tummy time?
Tummy time is important to help your little one develop strong muscles and avoid spending too much time lying on their back (like in the cot, pram, car seat, etc). The great thing about babywearing is that it helps with both of those things! Your baby uses their muscles while being worn to compensate for your movements, and their head shape and development isn’t obstructed by a flat surface.
My baby will only face outwards
Some parents insist that their baby prefers to face outwards. Maybe you are in the habit of holding your baby that way, or they prefer to watch what’s going on. However, it is generally more comfortable for both of you to have your baby facing inwards. If you plan on babywearing for long periods, you could instead try a hip or back (if your baby is old enough) carry to allow your child to see more of their surroundings.
Your baby can walk – they don’t need to be carried
Just because your little one has learnt how to walk, doesn’t mean they suddenly won’t need to be held close or have cuddles with you. Little legs get tired quickly, little people venture into places that might not be safe, and sometimes the outside world is a bit overwhelming. At these times, a baby carrier is still so handy with a toddler or small child. There are carriers designed with bigger babies and children in mind, so you can still babywear comfortably. Ignore anyone who may tell you that your child is too big!
In summary? Babywearing is awesome! Just about any parent and child can benefit from it, and anyone who tells you otherwise probably hasn’t given it a proper try for themselves.
Happy babywearing!
