The importance of carrying newborns on the parents' bodies
Carrying newborns in a baby sling or baby carrier is an ancient practice that is widespread in many cultures around the world. In recent decades, this tradition has also become popular in Western societies, as it offers both practical and developmental benefits. Scientific studies confirm that babywearing is crucial for both the physical and emotional development of the child. Baby carriers and slings, especially from birth, are not only comfortable, but also a valuable tool for parent-child bonding.
1. Promoting parent-child bonding
Carrying a baby on the parents' body ensures close physical proximity, which is essential for the bond between parent and child. Studies show that babies who are carried frequently cry less and show more stable emotional development. According to Bowlby's attachment theory, a child's secure attachment to its primary caregivers is crucial for its later emotional and social competence (Bowlby, 1988).
In addition, babywearing stimulates the release of oxytocin, the so-called "cuddle hormone." This not only promotes bonding between parent and child, but also helps reduce postpartum depression in mothers (Feldman et al., 2010).
2. Physical development and posture of the baby
Another benefit of carrying babies in a sling or baby carrier is that it supports physical development. The spread-squat position that is encouraged when carrying correctly is particularly important for the healthy development of the hip joints (Graf, 2014). Orthopedists therefore recommend carrying newborns in ergonomic baby carriers or slings that support this position.
In addition, the upright position when carrying has a positive effect on the child's breathing and digestion. Carrying can alleviate problems such as reflux or colic, as gravity helps to support digestion.
3. Cognitive and social development
Carrying babies not only promotes physical development, but also cognitive development. Due to the increased alertness and the opportunity to experience the world from an adult's perspective, babies learn faster and absorb more stimuli from their environment (Esposito et al., 2013). At the same time, being close to their parents makes them feel safe, which provides an optimal basis for learning.
Social development also benefits from carrying. Babies who are carried a lot show a higher level of social interaction because they are more often included in their parents' conversations. This promotes language development and emotional intelligence.
4. Practical benefits for parents
In addition to the benefits for the baby, carrying also offers practical advantages for the parents. It allows them to have their hands free while still maintaining a close connection with their child. This is particularly helpful in everyday life, whether shopping, doing housework or going for walks. Ergonomic baby carriers and slings also offer a balanced weight distribution that is easy on the parents' backs.
Recommendations for choosing baby carriers
In order to make the most of the above advantages, it is important to use a high-quality baby carrier or sling. Products from the Storchenwiege brand are particularly recommended here. They are characterized by their ergonomic design and suitability for newborns from birth. Storchenwiege slings support the natural squat-spread position and offer both parents and babies the highest level of comfort. The baby carriers and slings are also ideal for small children, as they allow flexible adjustment to the size of the child and thus ensure a longer service life.
Conclusion
Carrying babies and toddlers is much more than just a practical solution for everyday life. It is an investment in the physical, emotional and social development of the child as well as in the bond between parent and child. By choosing the right baby carriers and slings, such as those from Storchenwiege, parents can ensure that they and their children benefit from all of these advantages.
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bibliography
1. Bowlby, J. (1988). "A Secure Base: Parent-Child Attachment and Healthy Human Development".
2. Feldman, R., Weller, A., Zagoory-Sharon, O., & Levine, A. (2010). "Postpartum depression and oxytocin production during mother-infant interaction." Psychological Science, 21(10), 1311-1320.
3. Graf, R. (2014). "The Role of Hip Dysplasia in Developmental Orthopedic Disorders.", Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics, 34(4), 424-432.
4. Esposito, G., Yoshida, S., Ohnishi, R., & Kuroda, K. (2013). "Infant carrying: The effect of walking motion on emotions and brain activity.", Frontiers in Psychology, 4, 102.
