Date:    Thu, 24 Oct 2002 13:05:24 -0400
From:    Leslie <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: 'confining' slings

>>Thant's why all native cultures around the world "swaddle" their =
babies for several months (depending on the climate, some wrap in =
blankets and others in confining slings...and of course, we all =
"swaddle" babies with our arms when we hold them).<<

Slings are not confining.  Babies worn in slings are just well =
supported, similar to an adult in a hammock.  They love the soothing =
motion, white noise, and probably the familiar sound of mom's beating =
heart ever close by, not to mention her radiating body warmth.  And, =
with baby nestled so close, those early infant cues ("squirming, =
stretching, squeaking, smacking, searching, sucking") are readily =
detected by mom, or the baby wearer, helping establish a successful =
nursing relationship.

Slings are a tool that can help achieve a successful nursing =
relationship, in spite of societal attitudes that lead parents to =
believe babies should be placed somewhere (anywhere but in their arms - =
playpen, car seat, bouncy seat, etc.).  They are also useful for being =
able to respond to needs of older siblings or taking care of things like =
meal preparation, all the while providing the newborn or baby with a =
secure environment.

Leslie Ashton, RN, BScN


Dear Leslie,

Again, I agree that slings provide babies and moms with a much more intimate
and richer experience than depositing a baby all swaddled up in a
bassinette, but I would suggest to you that slings are rather confining for
babies during the first 3 months of life (as is holding a baby in your
arms).  Babies sink down into the cozy folds. But, don't get me wrong, I
think that is a good thing.  The world is too big for our tender
newborns...they need protection and security much more than they need
freedom.  Swaddling is just another good way of giving that feeling of
secuirity to them when they are upset and won't settle easily or when a
parents wants to put her baby to sleep.

Harvey

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