Shaken Baby Syndrome

Shaken baby syndrome is the term used for the injuries resulting from someone shaking or throwing a child. Young babies may be shaken by a parent or other caregiver who does not understand that this may cause fracturing of the baby's bones, bruising and bleeding of the brain, and injuries to the spinal cord. Unfortunately, shaken baby syndrome may lead to permanent brain damage, physical disability, or even death.

It is imperative that staff understand that infants are never to be shaken or tossed in the air, even in play. The large skull relative to brain size of infants means that the brain can bleed, become contused, and/or become swollen from shaking or tossing.

It is a good idea to educate all parents in your program about shaken baby syndrome.