Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) is the name given to physical abuse that happens when an infant or small child is violently shaken. It is also known as Abusive Head Trauma.

The shaking might only last a few seconds but the effects can be deadly. Babies are especially vulnerable because their neck muscles aren’t yet strong enough to support their heavy heads. When shaken, a baby's head whips back and forth, causing the brain to bounce off the skull. This can have serious and long-lasting impacts.

As parents and caregivers, we all have a responsibility to prevent it. To do this, it helps to understand:

• Why It Happens
• The Potential Effects
• The Signs & Symptoms
• How to Prevent It
• Where to Get More Information

Knowing the facts about SBS can help prevent it.