As curious young children explore their environments, they may put food and other objects in their mouths that can stick in their throats. Choking sends thousands of infants and toddlers to emergency rooms each year.

Earlier this year, the American Academy of Pediatrics drew attention to the problem, recommending action by government agencies, food manufacturers, parents and others to help prevent choking in children.

Monitor Meals

“Children under four years old are not able to grind their food into small pieces and may swallow foods whole or in larger pieces, causing a choking risk,” says Kathryn Wesolowsk, Manager, Rainbow Injury Prevention Center at University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital.

Do not allow a child younger than 4 years old to have these foods:

  • Hot dogs
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Chunks of peanut butter
  • Chunks of meat or cheese
  • Popcorn, pretzels, potato chips, corn chips and similar snack foods
  • Hard, gooey or sticky candy
  • Whole grapes
  • Raisins
  • Raw vegetables, especially hard ones
  • Chewing gum

“Parents should always supervise mealtime and consider whether different food choices have the potential to be choking risks,” says Wesolowski. “Do not give your child round, firm foods like hot dogs or carrot sticks unless they are chopped completely. Cut or break foods into bite-sized pieces, no larger than one-half inch, and encourage your child to chew thoroughly.”

Keep Small Objects Out of Little Hands

Keep small household items and toys with small removable parts out of toddlers’ reach. Remove common offenders, such as balloons, coins, marbles, tiny balls, pen caps, button-type batteries and pins.

Choking Emergencies

“Choking can occur even if you take precautions,” Wesolowski says. “If your child has a forceful cough and is crying or vocal, let the child get the food or object out.” But if your child cannot make a sound, have someone call 911 while you do the Heimlich maneuver. Learn the version that is right for your child’s age. Once the food or object comes out, take your child to the doctor. A piece of the object may remain in the lung; only a doctor can tell if your child is OK.