Choking
Child; choking; inhale; airway; breathe; wheeze; first; aid; cough; food; nut; choke; breathing ;
Choking is a risk for babies and young children. It is important to take care that your home (and any other place where your young child will be) does not have small things around that they can put in their mouth.
It is also a good idea to do a first aid course so you will feel confident to cope with any accident that could happen to your child.
Why are young children at risk of choking?
Young children are at risk of choking because they:
- put small objects into their mouths
- do not have the back teeth needed to chew and grind lumps of food fully
- are still learning to eat, chew and swallow
- may run, play, laugh or cry while there is something in their mouth.
Topic
The information on this site should not be used as an alternative to professional care. If you have a particular problem, see a doctor, or ring the Parent Helpline on 1300 364 100 (local call cost from anywhere in South Australia).
This topic may use 'he' and 'she' in turn - please change to suit your child's sex.