Separation anxiety is a natural part of a baby’s development, but that doesn’t make it any easier. If your baby cries when you leave the room, clings to you constantly, or struggles to nap alone, you’re not alone.
The good news? Babywearing can help.
Using a toddler sling, baby hip carrier, or structured toddler carrier provides comfort, security, and closeness—helping to ease your baby’s anxiety while keeping you hands-free.
What Causes Separation Anxiety in Babies?
Babies develop separation anxiety as they begin to understand that you can leave—but they don’t yet realize you’ll come back. This typically starts around 6 months and can peak between 9-18 months.
Signs of separation anxiety include:
- Crying or fussiness when a caregiver leaves the room
- Refusing to be held by other people
- Increased clinginess, especially in new or unfamiliar places
- Trouble falling asleep unless being held
Why does this happen?
- Babies are wired to seek closeness for survival
- They don’t yet understand the concept of object permanence (the idea that you still exist when out of sight)
- New environments and experiences can feel overwhelming
Babywearing provides a solution by keeping your baby close while allowing them to observe the world from a safe space.
How a Baby Carrier Helps with Separation Anxiety
Using a toddler sling, baby hip carrier, or best baby wrap helps ease separation anxiety by providing:
- A sense of security – Your baby feels safe being close to you
- Hands-free flexibility – You can comfort your baby while still getting things done
- A smooth transition to independence – Babies gain confidence when they feel supported
- Less fussiness and more sleep – Babywearing promotes calm and relaxation
Pro Tip: Babies who are worn in carriers cry 43% less than those who aren’t, according to studies.
Best Babywearing Options for a Clingy Baby
Different types of baby carriers work best for different situations. Here’s how to choose:
1. Toddler Sling (Best for Quick Comfort & Nursing)
- Lightweight, easy to put on and take off
- Allows for quick pick-ups and put-downs
- Great for discreet breastfeeding
- Ideal for toddlers in the clingy age range
Best for: Parents who need a fast, easy-to-wear carrier for quick errands, nursing, or soothing a fussy baby.
2. Baby Hip Carrier (Best for Active Toddlers Who Want Up & Down)
- Distributes weight evenly to reduce shoulder and back strain
- Great for toddlers who want to be carried but also want to walk
- Provides a secure baby seat that helps with posture and comfort
- Best for short-term carrying rather than all-day wear
Best for: Parents who want a comfortable, back-saving way to carry toddlers without committing to a full wrap or structured carrier.
3. Structured Toddler Carrier (Best for Hands-Free Convenience)
- Provides ergonomic support for both parent and baby
- Helps with longer babywearing sessions
- Ideal for travel, shopping, or longer outings
- Keeps baby in a secure, comfortable position
Best for: Parents who want all-day comfort and hands-free convenience while keeping their baby close.
How Babywearing Helps Your Baby Become More Independent
Many parents worry that babywearing might make their baby more dependent, but the opposite is true. Babies who feel secure and reassured actually develop more independence and confidence.
Here’s how:
- Feeling safe = more confidence – When babies feel safe, they’re more likely to explore on their own
- Less stress = easier transitions – When babies are calm, they adjust better to new situations
- More interaction = better social skills – Babies worn in carriers hear conversations and see facial expressions up close
Pro Tip: Babywearing helps toddlers transition from constant clinginess to comfortable independence.
Using Babywearing for Soothing & Sleep
Many parents struggle with getting their clingy baby to nap alone. Babywearing can help:
- Mimics rocking and motion, helping babies fall asleep faster
- Reduces overstimulation in new environments
- Allows parents to comfort baby while staying mobile
Best Carriers for Sleep Support:
- Best baby wrap for newborns – Soft, womb-like fit encourages napping
- Toddler sling for bigger babies – Keeps toddlers close while allowing them to doze off easily
Pro Tip: Babywearing doesn’t replace independent sleep, but it helps ease babies into feeling safe while they rest.
Common Babywearing Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Many parents make mistakes when choosing a baby carrier. Here are some common pitfalls and how to fix them:
- Choosing the wrong size – Make sure your carrier fits both you and your baby properly
- Ignoring weight distribution – Look for a carrier that reduces back and shoulder strain
- Using a non-ergonomic position – Always check that your baby’s knees are higher than their hips in an M-position
- Not considering your daily routine – Pick a carrier that suits your lifestyle, whether it’s travel, errands, or long walks
Pro Tip: Choose a baby carrier that adapts to your needs—from newborn wraps to toddler slings and structured carriers.
Why Ja Joii is the Best Baby Carrier for Separation Anxiety
Ja Joii was designed to support parents and babies from newborn through toddlerhood, solving the biggest struggles of babywearing.
What Makes Ja Joii Different?
- Lightweight and compact – Folds into a belt bag for easy storage
- Ergonomic for all ages – Supports newborns to toddlers with proper hip alignment
- Hands-free convenience – Perfect for travel, errands, and daily life
- Easy on & off design – No complicated wrapping or heavy buckles
- Breathable and comfortable – Keeps baby cool in all seasons
Ja Joii combines the best of a wrap, toddler sling, and structured carrier into one sleek, versatile babywearing solution.
Final Thoughts: A Baby Carrier Can Make All the Difference
If your baby is clingy or struggling with separation anxiety, a baby carrier can be a game-changer. Not only does babywearing help your little one feel safe and secure, but it also allows you to go about your day hands-free while fostering strong emotional bonds.
- Babywearing reduces clinginess and increases confidence
- It helps with separation anxiety, sleep, and social development
- A toddler sling, baby hip carrier, or structured toddler carrier provides the best support
If you want a baby carrier that makes life easier for you and your baby, Ja Joii is designed to support every stage of development.
