Written by Brandy Nichols, Contributing Writer
When I had my first child, I thought of babywearing as a way to be present for my child in a culture littered with baby-holding appliances. It seemed natural to me. I didn’t need (or have the budget for) a swing that mimicked my heartbeat. My mother-in-law gave me a ring sling as a gift and I made my first mei tai soon after. Like magic, my daughter fell asleep nearly every time I put her in either one. I didn’t understand it, but it sure was nice to feel her downy head against my chin.
Over the next year, I wore her much of the time, as first children seem to be the ones who don’t want to be put down. We did yard work, cooked (with her on the back), hung out laundry and went for walks to the store. I was able to get things done and offer the kind of presence she needed. I was also able to get her to sleep when she needed a nap. Golden. [Read more…]