Here's What Can Happen
Infants and young children to age five are susceptible to head trauma because their neck muscles are weak and can't always support the size of their heads.A sudden shaking motion causes the baby's fragile brain to slam against the skull wall - causing brain damage or death.
It's so deadly, in fact, that almost 25% of it's victims die.
Damage to a child's brain from shaking can affect many different parts if the childs body. And these affects can be devastating. They include:
Death
Cerebral Palsy
Severe motor dysfunction
Communication impairment
Dyslexia
Attention Deficit Disorder
Mental retardation and
Other learning disabilities

You Can Prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome
There are many things you can do to prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome:
1.Leave the baby in a safe, secure place, take deep breaths and count to 10.
2.Go to another room or area of the house.
3.Ask someone else to watch the baby for you - a parent, a neighbor or a friend.
4.Gently rock or give the baby a bottle or pacifier.
5.Take the baby out of the house for a ride in a stroller or car.
6.Be patient. If you find you can't calmly care for the baby, or have trouble controlling your anger, take a break.
7.Let the baby cry it out.
Remember, no matter how angry or impatient you feel - never shake a baby. Ever
Helpful Resources
There are many organizations available to help you. Hire a caregiver to give you a break. Or contact one of the resources below for additional help and information.
For Immediate Help Call:
Childhelp IOF Foresters Hotline
1-800-4A-CHILD
California Consortium to Prevent Child Abuse
1-800-CHILDREN

<<<<<back