Tips to Prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome

How to keep calm and keep your baby safe.

Parents and babies

  • REMEMBER THE 10- FOOT RULE: When you are very frustrated or angry, make sure the baby is in a safe place and then stay 10 feet away from the baby until you have calmed down.
  • I-AM-A-GOOD- PARENT-LIST: Write down at least 3 reasons why you are a good parent. Put the list up where you can see it and refer to it on those days when you are pulling your hair out.
  • SING AWAY THE STRESS: Learn to sing a lullaby. Singing a family song over and over again can calm the baby down – and you, too.
  • GRAB THE PHONE, NOT THE BABY: Have a list of 3 people you can call when the stress of parenting is getting to you. Often, a 10-minute conversation with a person who really listens can make all the difference.
  • MOVE AND BREATHE: When you are having a difficult day, exercise can really help. Wrap the baby up and go outside. Just getting out of the house for a few minutes can relieve stress.
  • REMEMBER TO LAUGH: Laughter is a great stress reliever.
  • TAKE A BREAK: Make time for yourself to do something that you enjoy. Caring for a baby is hard work. You deserve it and this daily investment will make you a better parent.
  • WHO’S WATCHING: Make sure the baby sitter you use can be trusted whether he or she is family or friend.

Child Abuse Series:

_
The Cleveland Police Foundation, in partnership with the Cleveland Division of Police and the Ohio Crime Prevention Association present these tips so citizens can help to make our community safer. 


_

The Cleveland Police Foundation is the official charity for the Cleveland Division of Police and the only organization authorized to solicit charitable contributions on its behalf.

We provide funding for youth and community outreach programs, community policing and engagement initiatives, safety & crime prevention programs, and support the members of the Cleveland Division of Police to help them better perform their duties. Contributions to the CPF are tax deductible under section 501 (c)(3) of the IRS Code.

Donate Here

Thank you for supporting the mission of the CPF.