Mar 1st, 2024

Abusive Head Trauma (AHT) describes injury inflicted to the brains of infants and young children. All it takes is a moment of lost control and violent shaking by a caregiver for an infant to become injured, become permanently disabled, or even die.

You can prevent AHT

• Practice the 4 Ss:
  • Suck- Offer baby a pacifier
  • Swaddle- until baby shows signs of rolling
  • Sway- gently rock baby
  • Shush- or other soothing sounds
• Take a break. Never hurt a baby.
• Ask for help - have a support system in place that you can reach out to.
• Choose appropriate caregivers
  • it is dangerous to leave your baby with anyone who becomes angry, loses control easily, or is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Let caregivers know to call you anytime they become frustrated. 

ctf4kids.org