Shaken
Baby Syndrome can be prevented!
Although the effects of SBS are frightening and tragic,
the reassuring news is that, unlike some diseases
that disable or kill children, SBS can be avoided.
Learn about SBS, and remember: Never Shake a Baby!
Even a brief moment of vigorous shaking can cause
serious and permanant damage.
Make
sure that everyone who cares for your child knows
about the dangers of shaking.
This includes friends, relatives, babysitters, child
care providers, brothers and sisters, and especially
anyone who has had little or no experience caring
for babies or young children. Surveys indicate that
two-thirds of offenders are males, often in their
early 20's, many with no previous history of abuse
offenses or substance abuse problems. Half tend to
be the child's natural parent. The other half include
boyfriends of the mother, non-relative caregivers
and stepparents.
Support
your baby's head and neck.
Always support the head and neck when holding
or transporting him or her. Be sure to tell others
who care for your infant to do the same.
Always
play gently with your baby.
Never throw or toss your baby in the air, swing
your baby by the ankles or jog with a young infant
on your back
