Do you have a dumb question that you're kind of embarrassed to ask in the main thread? Is there something you're just not sure about?
This is your opportunity to ask questions. No question too simple or too silly.
Culture war topics are accepted, and proposals for a better intro post are appreciated.
Jump in the discussion.
No email address required.
Notes -
It's all about the head and neck support. Holding a baby upright on your lap while aggressively driving a car is a terrible idea. Holding them flush with your torso is better. Car seats that have three point harnesses and appropriate angles for the back and neck are better. Babies have very weak necks, and their brains can slosh around when shaken hard, because their necks aren't controlling the motion.
Some cultures practice rather aggressive rocking, where they tie the baby into the cradle and operate it like an amusement park ride. They might notice if those who did that more had more brain damaged children.
There's a reason almost nobody goes hiking with a front pack. I have gone hiking in the ice and snow with a baby in a front pack, and it is very, very slow going. Balancing normally doesn't help all that much, since it's specifically the front weight creating the imbalance, and the main thing to do is things like not walking down steep hills, not walking on slick surfaces, holding a hand for stability, putting one's feet sideways so you can see them, etc. This isn't really helped by, for instance, learning to use a balance beam in conditions where you can see your feet. Not being able to see one's feet is destabilizing.
Humans are terrible at noticing longterm things, eg that tobacco and alcohol are bad for infant health or that the families which cooked in lead wound up with dumber children; but I wonder I’ll look to see if any scientists have studied this.
I think it is inexpensively trainable by requiring girls to wear front packs before an obstacle course as some school activity, and then advising the practice of this again before pregnancy. Genuinely would be better than half of what is taught in gym classes. I mean, 25% experiencing a fall and “20% sought medical care” are insane stats. Early life training + practice before pregnancy could probably bring that number considerably; I genuinely don’t remember the last time I fell while walking and I’m usually oblivious to my path.
More options
Context Copy link
More options
Context Copy link