Keeping Children Safe – Choking Hazards

Choking is a major safety risk for children.  A young child can choke more easily than an adult because his/her throat and windpipe are smaller. Infants and toddlers explore the world by putting objects in their mouths. The most common cause for choking is the one thing children are supposed to put in their mouths – food. Choking risks are increased in foods that are small, round, slippery, hard, or thick and sticky. Infants and young children often swallow their food whole as they are still learning to chew or grind their food.

Keeping Children Safe – Plan Ahead

•  Choose appropriate food for a child’s age and stage of development.
•  Set a calm atmosphere when eating.
•  Feed children when they are sitting down, not running or playing.
•  Remind children to chew slowly and take small bites.
•  Actively supervise children while they eat.
•  Offer plenty of liquids to children while eating.

Keeping Children Safe – Prepare with Care

•  For infants, cut food no larger than 1/4 inch cubes
•  For ages 1 – 4, cut no larger than 1/2 inch cubes
•  Spread peanut butter thinly
•  Cut grapes into quarters
•  Remove seeds from fruit and cut into small pieces
•  Cook or steam vegetables to soften their texture
•  Cut round foods into strips
•  Grind up tough foods
•  Finely chop meats before serving
•  Avoid foods that are sticky or hard and cannot be cut up

Prevention is the best approach to childhood choking.  So be aware and keep children safe!