Keep Calm And Carry On

Why is her baby always strapped to her in a carrier? Why not, says ESTHER AU YONG, who shares how babywearing has saved her sanity.

- Esther Au Yong

 

Child-rearing has become a controversial topic, especially with babies. Everyone has an opinion on what’s best, including the way you carry your little one.

I should know: I wear my baby a lot and I get plenty of opinions from just about everyone.

Reactions to me wearing my children range from: “Wah, you’re one of those new-age mums, eh?” to “Will the spine development be affected? What about leg development?”

Babywearing is the practice of wearing or carrying a baby in a wrap, ring sling or in a soft-structured carrier. The latter works like a backpack for front or back carries; common brands include Ergo, Babybjorn and Tula.

Babywearing has been practised for centuries around the world and has gained popularity in recent years.

I wear my baby out of necessity. Outside childcare opening hours (7am to 7pm on weekdays), I have little to no help. My needy one-year-old and active threeyear-old demand to be carried and want my attention.

Then, there are chores to be completed, meals to be prepared and exercising to be done.

You should try it, too