Why did kalinagos and tianos flatten their babies forehead?

The Kalinagos and Tainos, indigenous peoples of the Caribbean, practiced cranial shaping, where they flattened their babies' foreheads, as a form of body modification. This practice was often seen as a sign of beauty and social status within their cultures. The flattening was typically achieved by binding the infant's head between two boards or using cloths, and it was believed to enhance the child's appearance and ensure acceptance within the community. Such practices reflect the cultural values and beliefs surrounding aesthetics and identity in these societies.