A Baby Wants to be Carried: Everything you need to know about baby carriers and the benefits of babywearing

by Evelin Kirkilionis

Carrying your baby – in a sling, wrap or other carrier – often known as 'babywearing', is more than just a convenient means of transport. In A Baby Wants to be Carried author Evelin Kirkilionis explains in detail why babies expect to be carried and respond so well to it – they have been designed for it over millions of years of human evolution. From our hunter-gather ancestors to the present day, when a vast array of baby carriers can be found in stores and on the internet, in some ways little has changed. Held close to the body of a familiar caregiver, babies thrive on the sense of security they feel as they interact – on their own terms – with their surroundings.But modern parents must navigate their way through a mass of conflicting information about babywearing. How should a baby be carried, in what, for how long, and will it be safe? The answers can be found in these pages, as the author takes care to ensure that parents understand what to look for – and what to avoid – while making many helpful suggestions that will enable parents to make babywearing work for them. Her practical and informative approach makes the book a readable introduction to the joys of babywearing that will appeal to parents everywhere.

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction

192 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Torri Foster · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an interesting read. It dives deep into the history of human evolution and anatomy in order to help you understand why babies are made to be carried. It talks about the benefits, addresses the “concerns”, and refutes the myths. As someone who wears their child several hours a day, I absolutely geeked out over the technicality of her explanations. I’d definitely recommend for someone who wants to know WHY babywearing is so natural or if they want the scientific refutation of certain concerns.

[Janine Rudin · Rating 5 out of 5]

baby carrying provides protection, affection and safety

this is a great book which outlines the benefits of baby carrying…

a baby’s needs and development

myths and facts

boosting the parent/child relationship and developing independence

choosing the right carrier for you

a practical guide to the different uses of a woven wrap with a useful step-by-step picture guide to help you get it right

the essentials for carrying your baby

and it includes research, which is always important to validate the information



I love this book and I am adding it to the library at the Birth & Baby Family Centre – it beautifully reinforces our need and desire to carry our babies, to soothe them and to keep them close and, with its step-by-step picture guide, it is also a really practical and useful book for new parents.

Rachel Coy from the North East Sling Library has also read the book:

A perfect coffee table book which looks at the biological and sociological reason for baby carrying. Evelin Kirkilonis has presented her ideas and findings in an accessible way. Occasionally the translation from original German to English Is a little clunky but overall message is clear. Evelin Kirkilonis’ research into spread squat position and explanation of why babies need to be clinging or carried young provide comfort to parents who find they can’t put their baby down. A lovely book and have enjoyed reading it.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book that all Babywearing Educators, babywearing group leaders, and parent should read. It gives evidence based information regarding the normal development of baby's hips and spine as well as the emotional attachment that can be supported through babywearing. Great book!