Babywearing Dads and Babies of Peace Project | Ottawa Photographer

Mar 26

A few years ago, the Ottawa Babywearing Group had a fundraiser for the Babies of Peace Project. A few local photographers got together and held some photo sessions with some local Dads and a calendar was created in 2014. It was a really fun project!

I have been going through old blog posts from my retired website and I couldn't let this one go - so I've revived it here and had a chat with Dad about these photos too.

The Babies of Peace Project provides carriers to families who need them. The funds come from donations, fundraisers and from folks who simply donate a carrier. It's a beautiful project and you can learn more on the Ottawa Babywearing Group's website. A family can be nominated by friends, family or community members and it goes from there. There have been some beautiful stories of thanks shared on the OBG Facebook page over the last few years.

I met this awesome family through the OBG in 2013 at a Holiday Party right when their youngest was born. He was nestled in a green stretchy wrap and his mom and I struck up a conversation. The number of friendships that have been started has been one of the most beautiful things about the babywearing community.

Keep reading to learn about this Dad's experience with babywearing.

Dad carrying his baby in wrap and holding toddler's hand in winter.

Dad smiling with son during babywearing photo session.

Natibaby Wool wrap carries baby boy with Dad.

Photo of dad carrying his son in wrap with older toddler hugging.

Dad with his two sons playing in the snow in Vanier.

Dad hugging his sons during babywearing photo session in Vanier.

What were your favourite things about hanging out with your boys at the age they were in these photos?

These pictures were taken while I was taking parental leave with my boys for 10 months. We were like a tight knit crew having different adventures every day. Everything was so new for all of us and the boys were filed with curiosity and enthusiasm. I believe that this time together has made a stronger connection with the kids and I, and made the kids best friends which continues to this day. All the little old ladies love to say that your time off with the kids will be some of the best times of your life and they are actually right.

Why did you carry your sons?

I carried them because I loved the feeling of connection I felt when wearing them. I still remember walking to Bank street with my kids and having great conversations with them...whether they were in understandable English or not.

What were some of the best things about babywearing?

Babywearing was great for me as a dad because it was almost a sure fire way to calm a cranky baby or toddler. I could keep my boys calm and safe while I left my hands free to do things around the house or while out. It was also a way to get the kids to sleep almost without fail.

What would you say to anyone who was curious about using wraps and carriers?

To anyone who is curious about baby wearing, try and find a way to try out a few different wraps and carriers to see which ones are right for you. And just try it period! You won't regret it.

Elle Odyn Photography & Film offers babywearing sessions year round in Ottawa and beyond. If you are curious about the Ottawa Babywearing Group, they can be found on Facebook.