"But if I hold my baby too much, they'll never learn to be independent"

I often hear and see this kind of concern from both those who raised their children decades ago, as well as new or expectant parents now.

But it's not true.

Humans are carry mammals, designed to keep our babies with us, holding them, feeding frequently, to give their growing minds and bodies what they need to eventually venture into the world. Kangaroos had the right idea...we should have just evolved to have a pouch! 

When you look at the most traditional cultures - those less influenced by constant advertising or by pressures of more high-tech, modern, fast-paced societies, then having your baby close is the norm. They go where the parent goes: to the market, to the fields, around the home. When they're tired they rest, and when they're hungry, they feed. In between, they can experience the world around them from the warmth and safety of their caregiver. They know, by being held so close, that when they need something, their need will be responded to. So, while they need nothing, they will be content.

As they grow and their ability to move independently develops with them, they have been shown that the world is a place they can explore, safe in the knowledge that there is a safe space to return to when they need it...you.

By having their dependence on others be respected, listened to and responded to, your little one is more confidently able to take steps into the world independently, when they're ready.