Handmade Fleece Poncho?

In an older post: "Handmade Fleece Poncho", in the instructions it was stated to "measure child/person standing with arms straight out side by side". Do you mean straight out like trying to fly, or arms straight down resting on legs? Side by side is confusing me.

I get a 37.5 inch measurement for a three year old with arms straight out in the air and wonder if I'm measuring right. I am going to go get material, so a speedy reply would be so appreciated. Thanks in advance.

By maxine from Phoenix, AZ