N= Never, ever shake a baby
The Most Vital Step of ICON
The final and most crucial message of ICON is clear: never shake a baby. Even a few seconds of shaking can cause devastating harm. Babies have weak neck muscles and fragile brains. A violent shake can make the brain move inside the skull, leading to bleeding, swelling, permanent brain damage, or even death.
Why Shaking Happens
Sadly, most cases of shaken baby syndrome do not happen out of malice. They happen when a parent or carer feels overwhelmed and unable to cope with relentless crying. Frustration builds and, in a split second, unsafe choices are made.
This is why the first three steps of ICON are so important. Knowing that infant crying is normal, having a range of safe comforting methods, and understanding that it is OK to walk away if you feel overwhelmed, all protect babies from ever reaching this risk.
A Lifesaving Reminder
Your baby’s brain is precious. If you ever feel like you cannot cope, always put your baby down in a safe place and walk away for a few minutes. Call a friend, a family member, or a health professional for support. Never shake your baby.
ICON is not about judgment. It is about reassurance, education, and safety. Babies cry, and with the right support, you can cope.
Summary of ICON Week
As ICON Week comes to a close, here is a reminder of the four simple but powerful steps we explored each day:
- I – Infant crying is normal and will stop
- C – Comforting methods can help and sometimes the crying will ease
- O – It is OK to walk away if your baby is safe and you feel overwhelmed
- N – Never shake a baby under any circumstances
Together these steps form a message that saves lives and supports families. Crying is normal, coping is possible, and with ICON every parent can feel reassured that they are not alone.
Baby manuals don’t exist… but this comes close.
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I’d love to hear from you. What’s the one piece of advice you’d pass on to other new parents? Share it in the comments below. Your words could truly help someone else.