This policy is designed to prevent the possibility of abusive head trauma during care. Abusive head trauma (also referred to as Shaken Baby Syndrome) occurs in infants and young children, whose neck muscles are not well-developed and whose heads are larger relative to their bodies. As a result, they are especially susceptible to head trauma caused by any type of forceful or sudden shaking, with or without blunt impact. Damage can occur in as little as 5 seconds.
Abusive head trauma can occur in children up to 5 years of age; however, infants less than one year old are at greater risk of injury. Shaken baby syndrome can lead to serious conditions, including:
• Brain damage, problems with memory and attention, cerebral palsy;
• Blindness or hearing loss; Intellectual, speech or learning disabilities; and
• Developmental delays.
The signs and symptoms of shaken baby syndrome or head trauma include:
• Seizures;
• Bruises;
• Lack of appetite, vomiting, or difficulty sucking or swallowing;
• Lack of smiling or vocalizing;
• Rigidity, inability to lift the head;
• Difficulty staying awake, altered consciousness;
• Difficulty breathing, blue color due to lack of oxygen;
• Unequal pupil size, inability to focus the eyes or track movement; or
• Irritability
Injury Prevention
Infant crying is normal behavior, which improves as a child age. Teachers and Caregivers should develop proactive strategies to manage stress levels and appropriate responses to a crying child. This includes being self-aware and noticing when the caregiver may become frustrated or angry. Teachers and caregivers should discuss what calming strategies are successful with a child.
Soaring Eagles Academy recognizes that tiredness and frustration can be normal responses Teachers and Teaching Assistants may experience during their challenging and difficult role. The care and education of young children presents significant challenges and Soaring Eagles Academy recognizes this and will support all staff in managing adverse emotions.
It is appropriate and positive for staff to ask for a break, in discussion with the Admin Manager/ Director - to implement calming strategies. No negative conclusions will be drawn from such requests.
Emergency Response
If a child presents any of the above symptoms or you suspect a baby has suffered abusive head trauma:
• Call 911, call the parent/guardian, and inform the Director and regional manager.
• Report to the appropriate child protective services agency (or law enforcement, if applicable) within 24 hours or less as required by law. See Child Abuse/Neglect and Mandated Reporting Policy and Procedure for further information.
• See Medical Emergencies-Calling 911 for additional information.
5835 N. University Drive -Tamarac, FL 33321 (954) 721-7627 (SOAR) Fax: (954) 720-7627 (SOAR)