Sling-along

Babywearing, the age-old practice of wearing or carrying a baby in a sling or in another form of carrier, is gaining huge popularity these days. And surprisingly there are several social media pages dedicated to this trend. One of the prime advocates of this practice, the Delhi Sling Library, a community of babywearing parents that hosts monthly meet-ups and play dates throughout the NCR area, chose city girl Himani Dalmia’s residence for this month’s meet. The group is admired among several young moms as it offers a lending library of different carriers that can be checked out so you can try them before you buy.

Vivid Styles “There are many styles parents can choose from including ring slings, soft-structure or buckle carriers, woven wraps, stretchy wraps, pouch slings, mei tais, full buckle, half buckle, onbu, etc.” informs Shefali Bhasin Tiwari, co-founder of the library, adding, “We swap secrets via our Facebook group where parents share pictures, ask questions, share information and support one another. Through our sling library we wish to educate moms about the mental and emotional benefits of babywearing. Several researches suggest that hormonal levels of oxytocin are higher in women who babywear and risks of postpartum depression are lower. Since infants are immersed in the activities of daily life through sounds, smells and other stimuli, all the while feeling secure, developmental progress is enhanced. It is a healthy way to promote parent-infant attachment too.”

More than just convenience Most young mothers prefer babywearing, not just because it is convenient but also because they can take care of the baby themselves while travelling. “I have never been a big fan of the bulky strollers and travel systems,” says Himani, an avid babywearing advocate, adding, “They all claim to be easy folding, light and compact but I don’t find that to be the case. The best thing about this is having both your hands free. Convenience aside, babywearing has many other positive benefits throughout the stages of your infant’s or toddler’s development. It helps newborns regulate their breathing, heart rate and temperature. Done correctly, it also helps infants develop their hip sockets and build core muscles.” Prices can vary, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It is about finding the right fit for both parent and child.

“I have over 100 carriers in different colours and styles,” says Shefali, adding, “Of these, I bought 40 and others are from the library. I have been wearing my baby girl since she was three months old, and now she is three years old. I match them with my dresses or my daughter’s.”