From the book….

I thought this would be the easiest part to talk about. After all, I’ve been immersed in this field for almost two decades, ever since I started exploring it while pregnant with my first daughter. I could go on about it for hours. But to my surprise, it turned out to be the hardest.

How do you put into words something as simple, profound, and ancient as babywearing? How do you describe the simple yet beautiful act of carrying a baby in a piece of cloth—a practice that has been passed down for millennia and remains deeply woven into the daily lives of many cultures and communities around the world today—when, in recent years, it has been overshadowed by the growing influence of the baby care industry?

This practice, deeply rooted in human history and cultural wisdom, is more than just a way to transport a baby; it is an act of connection, nurturing, and belonging. Yet, the simplicity and universality of babywearing have lately been diluted by its rebranding as a marketable product rather than a timeless caregiving practice. It feels like this is what happens to many deeply rooted traditions and values when consumerism gets involved. A once-universal and intuitive practice has become somewhat entangled in layers of marketing and product features. Yet, the more overthought it becomes, the less we recognize its inherent simplicity and beauty.

On one side, the industry has modernized and, in some ways, simplified baby carriers for today’s parents. Carriers are often designed with convenience in mind, offering pre-structured, quick, and easy-to-use options. But on the other hand, this same development has made babywearing far more complex. What was once an intuitive, hands-on practice learned through observation and practical experience is now accompanied by instruction manuals, standards, and certifications for specific types of carrying aids.

Somewhere along the way, the focus shifted from the baby and the act of carrying to the product. With this shift, the responsibility for safe, practical babywearing seems to have been placed more on the product than on the caregiver using it. While innovation and safety standards are absolutely necessary, how do you create a one-size-fits-all manual that genuinely works for everyone? Each parent, each baby, and each context are unique, making it nearly impossible to fully regulate or prescribe such a personal, adaptable practice.

I firmly believe we need both: On the one hand, clear, well-thought-out standards are essential to regulate the ever-growing global market of babywearing aids, ensuring safety and quality. On the other hand, we also need to prioritize the human element: passing on knowledge, skills, and confidence to caregivers. This is where the expertise of babywearing consultants, midwives, doulas, nurses, etc., and experienced parents (peer support) comes in. Their role in offering hands-on support and sharing nuanced knowledge that no manual, video, or product description can fully convey is irreplaceable.

Experience shows that getting support from a knowledgeable, experienced person provides far greater value than attempting to navigate the overwhelming online maze of information, product options, and instructions alone. Besides, most consultants I know are in this with their heart and soul, so you will most likely get the babywearing knowledge, know-how, and warm support of a fellow human being, feeling guided and equipped to carry your child safely and confidently. The bonus is that you might also find a community of like-minded parents—a modern-day village offering support, shared experiences, ups and downs, and encouragement (and maybe that extra diaper that you didn’t bring along, remember?)—an incredibly valuable support system, as we explored in the previous chapter.

Parents should feel empowered and not overwhelmed when choosing to babywear. By combining well-regulated products with accessible, personalized education and support, we can bridge the gap.

… the discussion continues in the chapter…

THE “WHY” BEHIND BABYWEARING AND ITS IMPACT, which is packed with research and insightful analysis.

… and concludes with…

BEYOND TECHNIQUE: THE HUMAN SIDE OF BABYWEARING

As this book doesn’t cover proper positioning, tying techniques, and safety guidelines (and safety does come first), I encourage you to seek adequate support in your area for the information and know-how you need. If that’s not possible, be sure to consult reliable online resources.

But to close this chapter, I want to emphasize the human aspect alongside the technical information and guidelines you’ll encounter, including safety T.I.C.K.S. Babywearing is indeed a skill. Yet, it is also a deeply ingrained practice shaped by the everyday ways we connect with and care for our little ones. It helps us integrate them into the social fabric we are all part of, going beyond practicality to create bonds of care, comfort, and closeness that enrich our lives.

So, as you explore the technical and safety details, always remember to add A.N.D.—that extra pinch of presence that truly brings babywearing to life, transforming it from a practical tool into a meaningful human experience.

Always be present and mindful of yourself and your baby. Being mindful means gently tuning in to your own emotional and physical well-being and, above all, to your baby’s. Remember, you are the one carrying the baby, not (just) the carrier—stay engaged.

Never underestimate the power of connection. Connect with yourself, your children, and others. Even if it sometimes feels like it, you are never alone—reach out for support, both practical and emotional, when you need it.

Don’t forget to enjoy yourself along the way. They do grow so fast!

Our babies are meant to be carried. Our babies are meant to be held and loved so that they feel safe and connected.