Ever wonder why your baby calms instantly the moment you pick them up—but fusses the second you put them down?
It’s not just preference—it’s biology.
Babies are born with instinctual responses that make them crave closeness, movement, and security. And science shows that babywearing in a proper baby carrier, toddler sling, or best baby wrap taps into these deep-rooted needs, helping babies feel safe, soothed, and connected.
In this blog, we’ll break down the science behind why babies love being carried—and how the right baby carrier supports both their emotional and physical development.
The Biological Bond Between Parent and Baby
From the moment they’re born, babies are hardwired to seek connection. This bond is a survival instinct—keeping your baby close to you:
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Regulates their heart rate and body temperature
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Helps stabilize their breathing and blood sugar
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Reduces cortisol (stress hormone) levels
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Boosts oxytocin (the love and bonding hormone)
In short, when you hold or carry your baby, you’re doing more than comforting them—you’re helping their entire system regulate.
Why Motion Soothes Babies Instantly
Have you ever noticed how a fussy baby calms down the second you start rocking, bouncing, or walking around?
That’s because motion mimics the environment they knew in the womb.
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Carrying recreates the rhythmic motion of pregnancy
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This movement triggers a calming response called the infant calming reflex
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Studies show that carrying reduces crying and helps babies fall asleep faster
A baby carrier or baby seat that holds them close to your chest while you move through your day is one of the most effective ways to activate this reflex.
The “Transport Response”: Your Baby’s Built-In Calming Reflex
Science has a name for the instant calm that happens when you carry your baby—it’s called the transport response.
When mammals (including humans) are carried:
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Their heart rate decreases
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Their body relaxes
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Crying is reduced
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They enter a quiet, alert state (ideal for bonding and learning)
This explains why so many babies prefer being worn in a carrier over being left in a swing or stroller.
Carried Babies = Smarter, Happier Babies
The benefits go beyond just calm. Babywearing has been linked to:
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Improved cognitive development – Carried babies are more alert and take in more from their environment
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Faster language development – They hear more words and tone variation when up at adult level
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Stronger emotional bonds – Close contact supports secure attachment
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Decreased risk of flat head syndrome – Carriers reduce the time baby spends lying on their back
Why the Right Carrier Matters
Not all carriers are created equal. To truly support your baby’s development and comfort, your carrier should:
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Support the ergonomic M-position (baby’s knees higher than their bottom)
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Distribute weight evenly to prevent strain
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Allow baby’s head to rest against your chest
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Keep baby close enough to kiss
Let’s explore the best carrier types for maximizing these benefits.
Best Babywearing Options for Supporting Development
1. Baby Carrier (Structured Ergo Design)
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Provides strong spine and hip support
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Keeps baby close while allowing for longer wear
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Great for daily routines, errands, and walks
Best for: Babies 6 months and up, especially in the toddler carrier stage
2. Best Baby Wrap
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Ideal for newborns and early bonding
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Soft, stretchy fabric mimics the womb
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Creates a snug, cocoon-like fit
Best for: Fourth trimester and soothing clingy newborns
3. Toddler Sling
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Easy to put on and adjust
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Perfect for quick pick-ups and down moments
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Great for breastfeeding and bonding
Best for: Older babies and toddlers who still crave closeness
Why Ja Joii Taps Into the Science of Baby Bonding
Ja Joii was built on everything we know about babywearing science.
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Ergonomic M-position support for healthy hips and posture
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Snug, chest-facing carry to regulate baby’s nervous system
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Lightweight design that supports extended wear without strain
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Works as a baby seat, toddler sling, and structured baby carrier—all in one
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Ideal for babies and toddlers who crave closeness but also need flexibility
Whether you’re calming a fussy newborn or giving a clingy toddler a break from walking, Ja Joii meets your baby’s needs instinctively—just like nature intended.
Final Thoughts: Babywearing Isn’t a Trend—It’s Biology
Babies don’t love being carried just because it’s cozy—they love it because it’s how they were designed to thrive.
From emotional security to physical development, babywearing offers:
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Faster soothing and reduced crying
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Enhanced learning through observation
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A closer connection to their parent
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A healthier start for growing hips and spines
If you’re looking for a carrier that aligns with the science of what babies need, Ja Joii is the answer.