Choking hazards
Choking is a very real concern for your children. The size of a child’s windpipe is about the diameter of a drinking straw. Knowing what to avoid is the key in prevention. Here is a common list of choking foods for young children:
- Hotdog cut into coin shapes
- Peanuts
- Popcorn
- Pretzel nuggets
- Whole grapes
- Raw vegetables
- Seeds
- Dried fruit
- Peanut butter in spoonfuls or with soft white bread
- Ice cubes
- Cheese cubes
- Candy, cough drops, gum, lollipops, jelly beans
Common household items:
- Balloons
- Marbles
- Coins
- Small bouncy balls
- Marker or pen caps
- Button type batteries
- Screws
- Rings
You can help prevent choking by cutting the child’s food into small pieces. Cut hotdog rounds and grapes into quarters. Give small amounts to them while eating. Take note of what is in the area if you are watching little ones who may put things into their mouths. If they accidentally put something into their mouth and you can pull it out, do so. Be cautious not to push the object further down the throat. Tilt the child forward to help force it out. You will learn this if you take a CPR and choking course.
