Let’s be honest for a moment. I’ve swung all three of my kids around by their arms like they were whimsical toys. Whether it was spinning them in circles in the living room or hoisting them up so we could continue our shopping spree, I’ve done it all. I know I’m not alone; many parents indulge in this playful behavior.
However, when my youngest daughter—let’s call her Mia—approached me one day with her arm hanging down and tears streaming down her cheeks after her older sibling tugged her onto the couch, panic set in. I genuinely feared she was seriously hurt, and I imagined the worst-case scenario involving social services knocking on my door.
Fortunately, Mia was not permanently harmed but had a common condition known as nursemaid’s elbow. This injury occurs when the radius, one of the forearm bones, slips out of its normal position at the elbow joint. According to Boston Children’s Hospital, nursemaid’s elbow is prevalent in children under four, and it often happens during playful swings.
That day, as the doctor tried to pop Mia’s elbow back into place—three attempts in total—she cried each time, and I found myself tearing up too. Witnessing her pain while the doctor worked to fix her elbow was heart-wrenching. This experience made me realize how risky it can be to swing kids by their arms. After Mia’s first incident, I learned it could happen again, and it did—just last month, she managed to dislocate it again after tripping over our dog.
As an advocate for rough play—backed by studies indicating its benefits for mental health—I’m all for active playtime. But it’s crucial to play responsibly. Dr. Samuel Hargrove, an expert in pediatric orthopedics, sums it up well: “While it’s essential to encourage play, you must remain mindful of their developing joints. Overexertion can lead to lasting issues.”
Swinging kids by their arms can lead to problems with other joints too. I totally understand the temptation to indulge when your little one beams up at you with a grin and asks for a swing. But after watching my daughter’s painful experience, I’ve made the conscious choice to be gentler with her arms.
There are safer ways to lift and play with your children, such as cradling them under their arms or supporting them under their back and knees. While it might strain your lower back a bit more, it’s a small price to pay for their safety. Additionally, I’ve started using a leash and harness when we’re out to prevent Mia from pulling against my grip, which could lead to another injury. Yes, I get the side-eye from onlookers, but I prioritize my child’s safety over judgment.
So, if you’re one of those parents who finds joy in twirling your kids around by their arms, I get it. I’ve been there too. But having witnessed the consequences of nursemaid’s elbow firsthand, I’ve learned to say “no” when it comes to swinging.
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In summary, while engaging in playful activities with your children is essential, it’s crucial to be mindful of their safety. Swinging them by the arms can lead to injuries like nursemaid’s elbow, which can be painful and difficult to remedy. Choose safer alternatives and prioritize your child’s well-being.
Keyphrase: Avoid swinging kids by the arms
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