If you are ever in a situation where you are surrounded by first and second grade children, you may find yourself engaged in a lengthy game of Lifties. It is important, for your safety and theirs’, that you follow some basic Lifties guidelines. I hope this brief primer will protect your back and their heads.

Object

The object of lifties is to lift a child as high as you can into the air while holding their hands.

How To Play

To play lifties, the child should grab onto your hands in a secure manner, typically by the tumb. The child should then crouch as if ready to jump. You will probably need to crouch as well. When both are ready, count from 3 down to 1 and then lift the child into the air, ideally over your head. Allow gravity to bring the child down and do your best to make sure they land safely.

Repeat this process again and again until you slip a vertabrae.

Safety Tips

Make sure that the ceiling is high enough for Lifties.

Make sure you do not play Lifties near a ceiling fan.

Do not allow the child to try and “flip” by placing their legs on you as you lift them. Generally speaking, they always kick you in the crotch or teeth no matter where they are aiming.

When your arms feel rubbery, it is a good time to stop.

If a child who is larger than you wants to play, insist that they lift you instead.