Choking is one of the most preventable injuries and leading causes of death in toddlers. It is important for parents to learn choking first aid and to supervise children while they are eating.
Children under the age of three are at highest risk for airway obstruction (blockage of the tube from the mouth to the lungs). This is because their airway is very narrow and they are still learning about chewing and swallowing.
Common causes of choking
Food and latex balloons are the causes of most choking cases in Canada and the United States.
- Most food linked to choking is small, round or cylindrical. Examples include hot dogs, whole grapes, nuts and hard candy.
- Inflatable latex balloons, often used during children's birthday parties, are hazardous if children accidentally swallow them while trying to blow them up or choke on pieces if they burst.
Foods to avoid in children under four years of age
- Hard candies, cough drops
- Gum, gummy candies and chewable vitamins
- Peanuts
- Sunflower seeds
- Fish with bones
- Snacks on toothpicks or skewers
Foods that need special preparation
- Grapes - slice lengthwise
- Hot dogs and sausages - slice lengthwise
- Carrots and apples - finely chop or grate
Tips to keep your child safe from choking
- Supervise your child during all meal and snack times.
- Do not let other children feed your child unless they are supervised closely.
- Sit at a table, encourage a relaxed, safe eating environment and have your child chew their food well before swallowing.
- Discourage your child from walking or running while eating.
- Cut potentially hazardous foods into smaller bite-sized pieces.
- Vacuum and sweep regularly to remove choking hazards in the home.
- Take care to remove any unsafe food or toys from your child's reach.
- Avoid using latex balloons. Use shiny foil or Mylar balloons instead.