Child carriers are, quite simply, the oldest known method of transportation. Prehistoric in origin, the child carrier is humanity's first and best method of caring for a child . . . providing the developmental benefits of close contact with mother or father without depriving parents the freedom to fulfill their day-to-day duties. By all accounts, keeping your child close to you in a child carrier during their early development is beneficial to both you and them. It is not only a bonding technique, but also a way for your child to see and interact with the world as you do, and not as an idle spectator.

These are just some of the benefits to "wearing your baby":

Pure Convenience
You can use Both Hands! Shopping, eating, cleaning, taking care of your other kids, and walking busy streets become much easier when you use a baby carrier. You always know where your baby is, and keeping them close enhances their development (see below).

Aids Breastfeeding
Some babies feed better while moving, and children that are slow to gain weight are known to gain weight if they are held or carried in a sling for several hours per day . . . proximity to mom encourages eating and weight gain.
Many child carriers and slings, such as X and Y, are designed specifically for breastfeeding. These and other models often have special flaps to protect mother's privacy.

Enhances Baby's Development and Experience
Studies indicate that 'worn' babies have improved visual and auditory alertness relative to children that are frequently left on the floor or in a crib or playpen. Other studies indicate that carried babies have improved speech development since they are more directly exposed to normal adult conversation rather than 'child directed speech'.
Keeping your baby 'up' and with you as you manage your day-to-day tasks, especially in a forward facing child carrier, provides them with a 'heads up' perspective on the adult world.

Reduces Crying and Colic
A survey of 99 mothers of infants in Pediatrics indicates that carrying a baby for at least three hours per day reduces crying and fussing by 43% in the day and 51% at night, even when the child is set down.

Builds a Bond
Perhaps the best thing about a child carrier, baby sling, or front carrier is that the close proximity between parent or caretaker and baby can be instrumental in enhancing the close bonding that children need in order to be happy and satisfied. For mothers in particular, the close and constant proximity afforded to users of baby carriers stimulates and encourages the development of unspoken cues.