What Parents Need to Know About Shaken Baby Syndrome at Daycare

According to the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome, an estimated 600 to 1,400 cases of shaken baby syndrome (SBS) occur in the U.S. each year. Tragically, some of these cases happen in places where children should feel safest, like daycare centers.

If you’re here reading this, you might be wondering if your child was a victim of shaken baby syndrome while in the care of a daycare provider, and it’s important to act quickly.

What Is Shaken Baby Syndrome?

SBS happens when a baby or young child is violently shaken, usually out of frustration or anger. This kind of abuse can lead to devastating—and often life-threatening—injuries because of the force used and the fragility of a child’s developing brain.

Warning Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of SBS can vary depending on the severity of the trauma. Some of the most common red flags include:

• Extreme fussiness or irritability

• Difficulty staying awake or sudden loss of consciousness

• Vomiting

• Breathing problems

• Loss of appetite

• Seizures

• Unexplained bruising, especially around the head, neck, or shoulders

• Paralysis or loss of movement in parts of the body

In some cases, the signs aren’t immediately obvious. A child may seem normal for a short period after being shaken, but can develop serious complications over time. If you notice any of these symptoms after your child has been at daycare, get medical attention immediately.

Injuries Associated with SBS

Shaken baby syndrome can result in some of the most severe types of trauma, including:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

• Bleeding in the brain and eyes

• Spinal cord damage

• Broken ribs or limbs

• Permanent disabilities

• Developmental delays

• Death

What to Do If You Suspect SBS at Daycare

If you believe your child was harmed at daycare, here are four immediate steps to take:

1. Seek medical help right away. Doctors can run tests to confirm internal injuries and begin treatment while also creating important documentation.

2. Document everything. Keep records of symptoms, statements from daycare staff, and timelines. Photos of injuries and copies of medical records will help build your case.

3. Report the incident. Contact the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and your local police department to launch an official investigation.

4. Talk to a daycare injury attorney. These cases are complex and emotionally overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate them alone.

Let Us Help You Hold Daycares Accountable

At The Button Law Firm, we help families across Texas stand up to negligent daycares and hold wrongdoers accountable. If your child has been harmed due to shaken baby syndrome, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

You can reach our team directly by calling (214) 699-4409, emailing intake@buttonlawfirm.com, or filling out our secure contact form at buttonlawfirm.com/contact.cfm. We’re ready to help your family move forward and fight for justice.