Babywearing 101: The Science, Benefits & How to Start

Babywearing is the timeless practice of holding your baby close using a sling, wrap, or structured carrier - and it offers far more than convenience. In this episode, Dr. Alicia breaks down the science behind babywearing, the physical and emotional benefits for both parent and baby, and how to position your newborn safely and comfortably.

We’re joined by Megan Tennant and Sam Bright, Physiotherapists at Island Kids Physio, who share expert insights into optimal alignment, developmental considerations, and how to choose the right carrier for your family. Together, they explore the pros, cons, and key features of ring slings, wraps, soft-structured carriers, and more.

You’ll also hear practical tips for getting started, red flags to watch for, and trusted resources for selecting a professionally recommended baby carrier that supports healthy development - and keeps your baby snug, secure, and close to your heart. For further reading, tips & tricks, check out:

• T.I.C.K.S. Rules for Safe Babywearing
• Hip Healthy Carriers from The International Hip Dysplasia Institute 
• www.kidsphysio.ca 
• IG: @islandkidsphysio 

The Benefits of Babywearing

Bonding

Studies have shown that there is a direct correlation in secure attachment between baby and parent with just one hour of babywearing per day. Being close to the carrier’s heart can affect baby’s own heart rate and breathing depending on who they are close to, therefore leading to increased bonding, attachment, and regulation!

Removing Pressure off of Baby’s Head

Newborns spend most of their time on their backs. Babywearing helps to reduce the pressure from the back of their heads. We did a great podcast regarding plagiocephaly - the term used for when a baby develops a flat spot on one side of the head or the whole back of the head - that you can check out here!

Tummy Time

Another great benefit of babywearing is that it can serve as some tummy time, particularly for young babies zero to two months old. In order for baby to look at their caregiver’s head, they have to lift their neck and use those muscles - which is easier done in a carrier. The transition of being on the floor can be jarring for newborns that have come from a cozy and comfortable womb - being in a carrier is a bit more reminiscent of that space and therefore a great place for them to start working on head control. But this is not to say that it can or should fully replace tummy time on the floor, especially as your baby gets a bit older. If you want to know more about tummy time and how to make it more fun check out our blog post here!

Give Mom a Break!

In addition to still recovering from the physical effects of giving birth, breastfeeding, or general exhaustion, the primary or breastfeeding caretaker can often feel “touched-out” by constant physical contact. Babywearing by another partner gives them an often welcome break, as well as allowing for important bonding time with another caretaker!

Healthy Hip Development

If the hips are well positioned in a wrap or carrier, babywearing can help facilitate healthy hip development. A helpful acronym to keep in mind when positioning with babywearing is T.I.C.K.S.

T: Tight

I: In View at All Times

C: Close enough to Kiss

K: Keep Chin off the Chest

S: Supported Back

We get into more details regarding each of these in the podcast, so tune in! Also check-out this awesome PDF that explains each step in more details - with visuals!

T.I.C.K.S. Rules for Safe Babywearing

Why Is it Important for Baby’s Hips to be open?

For any aged baby - particularly up to six months - we don't want baby's legs hanging straight down. This is because when babies are born, they don’t have a very deep hip socket yet. This is developed over time with flection, kicking, and eventually weight bearing. If babies in early ages don’t spend much time flexed out and in a wide open position, they risk not developing as deep a hip pocket. This can lead to hip dysplasia or the hip not being in a nice position under the socket.

Different Types of Carriers

There are three main types of baby carriers:

1. Wrap
2. Ring Sling
3. Soft-Structured Carrier 

We discuss the pros and cons of each type of wrap in the podcast, as well as our own personal preferences as medical professionals and mamas! But there are a few main tips to keep in mind when choosing a carrier for your baby.

Top 6 Tips for Choosing a Carrier

1. Positioning

As parents, we often get into the habit of doing the same repetitive action the same way, whether it be putting on a diaper or feeding our baby. If baby’s head is always looking the same way, one muscle can get a bit tighter on one side, another more stretched out. It might also lead to a bit of a flat spot on the resting side of the head. Regardless of the type of carrier you choose, make sure you’re rotating your baby’s head from time to time - within reason, of course!

2. Front or Back Facing

You may be wondering if your baby may prefer facing outward or forward, to be able to take in the exciting world around them! There are benefits to baby facing forward, but we do not recommend it for newborns under the six month age range. While they may have good head control by that time - or even younger - it is more difficult to maintain that open M-shape that is essential for newborn hip development in a forward-facing carrier. 

A great list of hip healthy carriers can be found on the Hipdysplasia.org website at:

www.hipdysplasia.org/hip-healthy-products/  

3. Different Carriers for Different Partners

You may find you need a different carrier for you and your partner. This is worth the investment, keeping in mind not only baby’s health, but your own! A tight fit will improve your back safety and reduce strain and pain!

4. Always Remember Safety

Be extra vigilant when babywearing. While we never intend harm, being sleep deprived and adjusting to a new distribution of weight and balance can be tricky and lead to more accidents. Be attentive when consuming hot beverages that can burn baby’s skin, sharp objects that they can grab, or walking up and down stairs. The railing is your friend!

5. Seek Out a Community

There are many professional, community or volunteer groups that can offer support on how to properly babywear and offer additional tips and tricks for how to find and adjust the carrier in a way that most suits you and your baby - including many retailers that have trained and knowledgeable staff.

6. Try on Before you Buy

This may sound simple, but overall our biggest tip would be to try on a carrier before you buy one! Make sure to consider how it sits your baby using the T.I.C.K.S. acronym as a guide, as well as if it is comfortable for you.