How to Avoid a Choking Accident

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By dazedaze
User-Submitted Article

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choking

One of the scariest events a parent will have to face is watching their child choke while eating. Learning the Heimlich maneuver and CPR is greatly beneficial to every parent just in case you must provide first aid for a choking child. Aside from making sure to be present when your child is eating, one must learn to avoid foods that are unsafe for a child and should prepare foods that are easy to swallow to avoid a choking accident.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

When preparing food for your child, make sure to cut the food into small pieces so your child is able to easily chew and swallow the food. Of course if he has no teeth yet, the food should be mashed well. If he is already feeding himself, make sure to provide him with a small spoon so he does not accidentally put a big portion of food in his mouth. The small spoon will allow him to put smaller portions of food in his mouth.
Step 2

Some foods should be avoided. Hard candies are terribly dangerous for a child to be eating. Avoid any type of hard candy. Nuts and popcorn are also difficult to chew. Be aware of these foods as well. Other foods that are dangerous are sticky foods like peanut butter. Once you start giving your child peanut butter, begin by spreading peanut butter on crackers. Peanut butter on bread is sticky and could be difficult to swallow.
Step 3

Raw fruits and vegetables can cause choking accidents as well. When giving your child fruit, make sure the seeds have been removed. Seeds can can create an accident. Vegetables can be hard to chew, so it's best to steam them so they are softer and easier to chew.
Step 4

When feeding your child, make sure he is eating in a sitting position. Do not allow your child to eat when he is lying down or playing around. Make sure your child is focused on the food he is eating.
Step 5

Be present when your child is eating. Do not allow your child to eat when you are not around or leave your child unattended when eating. Your child might need your assistance when you're away and an accident can occur if you're not there to help.