International Babywearing Week 2012

This week is International Babywearing Week so I thought I would write a little post on what babywearing has meant to me as a doctor and a mother. Babywearing was not a word I was familiar with until 2008. Before that I knew my mother wore me during walks and when she cleaned the house or when we went to the zoo. It was in a backpack style carrier (which now we know aren't safe for little ones hips).

I didn't know it had a phrase or following until 2008 when I had a patient come into my office named Paige and her daughter Maddi. Paige answered all my questions, and as a doctor who dealt with pediatrics I had plenty of them. Babywearing and all it encompassed passed my doctor approved activities. At the time I was not a mother (despite the on and off battle Brian and I were having with trying to conceive), but I knew that when the day came I would be in the market for a carrier (or twelve) of my own. ;)

Before my daughter Kyla was even born I had 3 different carriers ready to try out and couldn't wait for the opportunity. Kyla was 9 days late (go figure!) and she ended up in the NICU for a couple days pending some tests and observation (she was completely fine). I would have worn her out of the hospital if they let me, but they didn't. She was wrapped within 5 minutes of being home. I wore her tons during those first few months to bring back the bond I lost during those first few days. Here is a picture of Kyla the second day home.

Last year during IBW 2011 Kyla was extra fussy and I wrapping her was the only sure fire way to get a nap out of her. I ended up wearing her while adjusting 12 patients in a row. I considered this a score for multiple reasons ... 1. A NAP!! Yay! 2. Patients being understanding. I couldn't believe the compliance I received from them ALL! Amazing how in my line of work I can make people feel better while comforting my child at the same time. This is a picture of us after that long day about a year ago.

Can't wait for this weeks IBW. With a photo shoot and a flash mob, I'm sure we can spread awareness to even more families and patients ;)