What Can I Do?

What can I do to prevent SBS?

Parents and caregivers need a plan of action to deal with a crying baby. Parents should share the dangers of shaking with everyone who cares for their child. Just saying "Don't shake a baby" is not enough.

For Parents
Print copies of these tips on calming a crying baby and put them in locations around your home where you and the baby spend a lot of time. Put one on the kitchen refrigerator, in the baby's bedroom and in the family room.

For Babysitters and other caretakers
Share this sheet with care takers every time you leave your baby in the care of a spouse, boyfriend, relatives, friends or babysitters. This handy sheet outlines when to feed the baby, when to put the baby down for a nap, and has tips for the baby's caretaker to prevent shaken baby syndrome.

Don't leave your baby in the care of other people without telling them that it is NEVER okay to shake the baby. Make sure that everyone who cares for your child knows about the dangers of shaking. Tell them that allowing a baby to cry is OK if the baby's needs have been met. Let them know that it is OK to call for help if they get frustrated.

For those families without young children in their homes
Parents often need a break. Reach out to stressed parents by helping them with babysitting and household chores. Please help if you are asked to look after a crying baby. Know when you have reached your limit of frustration and get help if you need it. You can also help by being there to listen to their problems.

Other ways to be involved

1. Do Something! Child abuse, including Shaken Baby Syndrome, is preventable. Download materials from this site and share with parents and caregivers Be supportive. Caring for a baby is hard work. Sometimes parents and caregivers just need a friend to talk to. Talking to others can help reduce stress and frustration, and lets parents and caregivers know they are not alone. Sometimes it can be difficult to know how to talk to someone: More Information

2. Volunteer for local organizations that support children and families. 

3. Be a voice for kids! Help The Children's Hospital advocate on behalf of children in the public policy arena. It's up to adults to help create safer and healthier communities for our children. The Children's Hospital Grassroots Advocacy Network is an easy way to stay connected to public policy decisions affecting children's health and well-being, and to take action when your voice is needed - and it only take a few minutes of your time!

To join now: www.thechildrenshospital.org/advocacy and click on "Join Now".

4. Donate:

The Kempe Foundation for the Prevention and Treatment of Child Abuse and Neglect

For over 40 years, Kempe has been the leader in supporting the prevention, research and treatment of child abuse and neglect. Founded by Denver pediatrician, C. Henry Kempe, we combine medical treatments and education programs with world class scientific research so we can help kids now and find more ways to stop the horrible consequences of abuse in the future. We make your donation work hardest for the kids who need it most. If you want to make the most difference in the fight against child abuse, give to the one place that is making the most difference and healing more hearts: Kempe. We carefully analyze where funding is needed most and how to use finances wisely so you can be assured your donation will make a real impact. The children are counting on us!

Kohl's - Kohl's Cares for Kids

Kohl's commitment to The Children's Hospital is made possible through the Kohl's Cares for Kids* program, which raises funds for children's health and educational opportunities through the sale of special gift items. Net profits from the sales go to support children's health and educational opportunities in the market areas served by Kohl's. Kohl's community outreach also includes Kohl's Kids Who Care*, an annual youth volunteer recognition program, fundraising gift cards for local schools and non-profit youth groups, as well as an associate program to encourage volunteerism.

For more information, visit www.kohlscorporation.com