Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention

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Coalition

Shaken Baby Coalition | PCAT

The Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention Coalition has directed the prevention efforts across the state.  Since it’s inception, the Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention Coalition has successfully partnered with the Governor’s Office of Children’s Care Coordination to implement an evidence based directed parent education program that has shown to decrease incidents of Shaken Baby Syndrome by up to 57%.

The Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention program involves parents in a hospital based setting after the birth of their baby, through in-home visitation programs, and in early child care centers to teach effective calming strategies for crying infants, and having a plan for dealing with the frustrations of caring for a young baby.  Every parent has access to the 24 hour Parent Line (1-800-CHILDREN) for support.

When dealing with a fussy baby, remember to check the checklist:

  • Hungry?
  • Burp?
  • Diaper?
  • Tired?
  • Just needs to cry?
  • Sick?
  • Bored?
  • Too much activity?

Have a Plan when you feel stressed from caring for a new baby:

  • Breathe. Take some deep breaths to help reduce feelings of anger and tension
  • The 10 foot rule. Place your baby in a safe place and walk 10 feet away until you have calmed down.
  • Take a break. Gently Lay your baby down on her back and take a break.
  • Talk to someone. Call a friend or a relative who will listen and be caring.  It can help to share your thoughts and feelings.
  • Go for a walk with your baby.  A simple walk around the block can help calm both you and your baby.

If you are at a breaking point or need someone to talk to, call The Parent Line: 1-800-CHILDREN.

Remember, never shake a baby!  You can’t make a baby stop crying, and shaking is dangerous.  When you’ve tried everything, and you don’t know what else to do, give yourself a pat on the back for trying.

  • To link to the Parent Line information, CLICK HERE
  • To download a PDF version of the program pamphlet, CLICK HERE
  • To download a PDF version of the program pamphlet in Spanish, CLICK HERE
  • To download the SBS Prevention Materials Order Form, CLICK HERE

To find out more about the Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention Coalition, or to get more information about the Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention Program in Tennessee, contact Kristen Rector at 615-383-0994 or email her at Kristen.rector@pcat.org.  To download data collection tools for the project, click here.

This program is funded under and agreement with the Governor’s Office of Children Care Coordination.