BENEFITS OF BABY WEARING | WITH DOULA LEAH PATARA
At portier, our mission is to empower parents to embrace styling parenthood their way. Our fashion-forward yet functional baby carriers are designed not only to complement your wardrobe but to foster meaningful moments of connection with your baby. Baby wearing is more than just a solution—it’s a transformative experience for both baby and parent which we’re passionate about. In honour of Baby Wearing Week this week, we asked Leah; friend of portier, Doula, and postpartum industry leader, to share the heartfelt benefits of baby wearing with us.
Leah, who transitioned from a 35-year long career in fashion and media to become a guiding light for new parents in her new profession, believes deeply in the power of baby wearing. With her passion for helping families navigate early parenthood, she offers us her top five benefits of this bonding practice and why it’s such an important part of early development.
Bonding
My number one and favourite benefit of Baby wearing is that it brings your baby close to your heart—literally. Holding your baby so intimately allows you to respond instinctively to their needs, creating a deep emotional bond. What’s often overlooked is the opportunity for fathers to establish the same closeness. For dads, wearing their baby can create irreplaceable moments of connection during the postpartum period, building a foundation of trust and emotional security that goes far beyond the early days.
Reduced Stress
As a meditation teacher, I’m attuned to the calming effects of mindfulness and security. Baby wearing offers babies a sanctuary of calm, and often cry less as a result of feeling safe and connected. This sense of security doesn’t just benefit your baby—it also reduces parental anxiety. Knowing your child is close and comforted helps alleviate the overwhelm of new parenthood, fostering a sense of peace for both baby and parent. It’s a simple, yet powerful, way to create harmony in your daily routine.
Learning Through Motion
Babies are naturally curious and eager to engage with their surroundings. When you carry them, they experience the world from an elevated, secure perspective. This newfound vantage point not only allows them to feel involved in your daily activities but also stimulates their cognitive and sensory development. Every movement, every new sound, and every face they encounter from your arms contributes to their growth. It's a window into the world that promotes curiosity and learning in the most nurturing way.
Easier Settling
There’s something magical about the gentle sway of being worn by a parent. It’s reminiscent of the rhythms of the womb, making baby wearing one of the most effective ways to soothe and settle a fussy or tired baby. Whether you’re walking around the house or out for a walk, that soft, consistent motion helps lull your baby into a peaceful sleep, giving you a much-needed moment of quiet.
Confidence
Parenthood can be overwhelming, especially in the early days when you're still finding your rhythm. Baby wearing gives parents a sense of confidence—offering freedom of movement while keeping their little one close. The ability to multitask, whether running errands or simply enjoying a cup of coffee, without sacrificing the closeness your baby craves, is empowering. I strongly believe when you feel connected to your baby, you feel more grounded, capable, and ready to take on the challenges of parenthood with a renewed sense of assurance.
At its core, baby wearing isn’t just a practical solution for busy parents—it’s an act that provides developmental benefits for your child while giving you the freedom to navigate parenting and life with confidence. It’s a reminder that parenting is not about how efficient or productive we can be, but about the precious moments of bonding we create along the way. Through baby wearing, you’re not just carrying your child; you’re building a foundation of trust, love, and connection that will last a lifetime, and looking good while you do it.
