Do you worry about your little one choking on something? That's understandable—it's a scary thought.
So you'll be glad to know that choking is highly preventable. By keeping some basic advice in mind, you can help keep your sweet kiddo safe.
What's most risky?
Choking hazards generally fall into two categories: certain types of foods and small objects. Here's a closer look.
Big and dicey bites. Certain foods pose a danger because of their size, shape or texture. For example, here are some common choking hazards for babies 6 to 12 months:
- Chunks of meat or cheese.
- Pieces of hard raw fruit or vegetables or whole pieces of canned fruit.
- Whole grapes, berries, cherries or cherry tomatoes.
- Popcorn, chips, cookies or granola bars.
- Round slices of hot dogs or sausages.
- Nuts or peanut butter.
- Hard or sticky candy and gum.
Remind yourself that it's time well-spent to cut your little one's food into tiny bites that are easier to swallow. And make sure baby is sitting up and within your view while eating.
Every little thing. Exploring babies will be sure to find things to put in their mouths. So be extra careful to keep small objects off the floor. Same goes for any place baby might reach, like a tabletop or bottom drawer. For example, make sure the following are kept out of reach:
- Coins.
- Button batteries (tiny coin-shaped batteries used in watches and small toys).
- Refrigerator magnets.
- Pen caps.
- Hair pins and rubber bands.
- Balloons.
- Small toys, like marbles, or toy parts.
- Beads and other small craft items.
Peace of mind!
Be ready in case of an emergency. Talk to your doctor or a nurse about how to be prepared and consider taking an infant first aid class. Look for an American Red Cross training near you.
Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Reviewed 1/16/2024