All babies cry. Some infants can cry for a long time and cannot be soothed. Abusive head trauma, including shaken baby syndrome, is a severe form of child abuse that can happen when someone shakes a baby violently to stop their crying. It can cause bleeding around the brain or behind the eyes. It is a leading cause of child abuse deaths. Babies less than one year old are at the greatest risk of injury or death from abusive head trauma.

Head Start staff should talk with families of young infants about how they manage their baby’s crying and offer support when needed. Remember that infants who don’t cruise should not have bruises.

Tips and Strategies for Child Abuse and Neglect Considerations for Infants and Toddlers

• Review The Period of PURPLE Crying to learn more about the signs and symptoms of abusive head trauma. Share resources from the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome with families.
• Help staff manage and concerns that come up during the newborn visit or a home visit.