>>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


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