Why More Dads Are Carrying Their Babies - And Loving It

Babywearing - the practice of carrying your baby close in a sling or carrier - is often associated with mothers. But it can be just as powerful for fathers. In fact, it offers one of the simplest, most rewarding ways for dads to bond, gain confidence and play an active role in (early) caregiving. Babywearing facilitates connection like no other child-rearing practice. And for fathers, that connection brings lasting benefits for both child and parent.

1. Bonding Through Proximity

Fathers don’t carry babies for nine months, so their bonding journey often begins at birth. Babywearing helps dads build that closeness from the start. Physical proximity allows fathers to learn their baby's cues — hunger, discomfort, sleepiness — in real time¹.

Carrying skin-to-skin or heart-to-heart can trigger the release of oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” promoting calm, connection, and a natural sense of protectiveness².

2. Confidence in Caregiving

Many new fathers feel unsure about handling newborns. Babywearing helps bridge that gap. Carriers offer a secure, ergonomic way to keep the baby close, giving fathers hands-on experience in soothing, calming, and connecting.

It’s often a turning point — when dads realize they’re not just helping, they’re parenting.

3. Shared Parenting Made Real

When dads carry, mothers get to rest, reset, or recharge. That’s not just helpful — it's essential. Babywearing allows fathers to support fussy babies, navigate nap routines, or get out the door without needing a stroller or a long list of gear³.

As Dr. Sears puts it, a baby in a carrier doesn't ask, “Where’s Mom?” — because they're already with someone who feels just as safe⁴.

4. Emotional Benefits

Babywearing isn’t just good for babies - it helps regulate stress and anxiety in fathers, particularly in the early postpartum months⁵.

Close contact with your baby - the feel of their breath, the warmth of their body - calms your nervous system and helps you stay grounded and responsive.

5. Practicality That Works

Modern fatherhood is active. Babywearing gives dads freedom of movement without sacrificing closeness. Whether walking, cooking, or commuting - it is multitasking with meaning. ANd only with the right carrier, whichever it may be, babywearing becomes second nature.

6. Safety First

The benefits are clear - but babywearing must be done safely. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping baby’s airways clear, supporting the head and spine, and using the “M” shape position for healthy hips⁶.

New dads can learn safe babywearing basics from reliable guides, in-person consultants, or trusted resources including our blog.

Conclusion

Babywearing offers fathers a powerful way to connect, support, and grow into their parenting role. From bonding and confidence to shared routines and emotional well-being, the benefits are far-reaching - for dads, for babies, and for families as a whole.

It’s time we shift the image of babywearing from “mom-only” to every parent. For fathers, it’s not just about carrying - it’s about showing up, hands and heart full.

At babyloop, we’re redefining what it means to carry. Our all-in-one carrier is designed to make babywearing simple, safe, and easy to use from day one - for every parent.

After all, confidence is the first step to competence - and it starts with a carrier you can trust. Want more tips (and first dibs on our carrier)? [Join our email crew]

Hi, I’m Michaela - certified babywearing consultant and founder of babyloop. My mission is to make babywearing simple, practical and stress-free - from your very first carry to those toddler-on-your-hip days. Whether you're just starting out or want to carry with more confidence, I’ve got your back (literally).

Sources

1. The Natural Parent Magazine. Kickstart Paternal Bonding: Benefits of Babywearing for Dads.

2. Fourth Trimester Retreat. 10 Science-Backed Benefits of Babywearing.

3. Ask Dr. Sears. Fathers Wearing Babies.

4. Fourth Trimester Retreat. 10 Science-Backed Benefits of Babywearing.

5. Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS). Babywearing Is Healthy, If Done the Right Way.

6. Carrying Matters. Guide to Slings and Babywearing Safety.