Protect your whakapapa - never ever shake a baby

Shaken Baby Syndrome is sometimes called Abusive Head Trauma. It's the name given to the injuries that happen when someone shakes a pēpi, usually because they are frustrated with pēpi crying and want it to stop.

Shaking a pēpi can cause:

• permanent brain damage

• paralysis

• blindness

• deafness

• seizures

• broken bones

• developmental delay

• death

We know that about 20% of pēpi with Shaken Baby Syndrome will die, and many more will have moderate to severe injuries that they may never recover from.

Keeping pēpi safe allows them to grow and develop to their potential, protecting and nurturing your whakapapa.

You have the Power to Protect - when pēpi won't stop crying and it gets too much, be strong enough to walk away, take a break, and come back when you feel ready to comfort pēpi.

See our tips on dealing with a crying baby and our messaging on walking away until you feel okay.

Remember, it's really important to get help straight away if you think your pēpi has been harmed. Don't let fear or guilt get in the way of seeking help - getting medical help early may save pēpi's life. For urgent medical help phone 111.

Watch the video below from TATI to hear from health professionals and whānau with lived experience talking about how Shaken Baby Syndrome has affected their lives. The full e-module series can be accessed via https://www.tati.co.nz/.