When my little one was just two years old, she found herself in a terrifying situation—choking on a piece of cheese. It was one of those small Babybell rounds that I had sliced into tiny bits. Somehow, she managed to cram a bunch of those pieces into her mouth, creating a larger mass that lodged itself in her throat. Panic set in.
Fortunately, I had taken a toddler CPR class, and I was incredibly thankful for a pediatrician who had taught me how to deliver the right amount of back blows if a child was choking. A few firm taps on her back, and the cheese popped out. I still shudder to think what might have happened if I hadn’t known how to react or worse, if I had panicked.
Choking incidents can turn fatal in mere seconds—one child dies every five days from choking in the U.S. Knowing how to respond swiftly can make an enormous difference. A father’s recent experience with his baby choking has gone viral, highlighting the importance of being mindful about the snacks we offer our kids. He discovered that a can of stale crunchies had a warning in tiny print suggesting they should be discarded after five days of opening. The stale snacks, which were like foam ear plugs, were a choking hazard compared to the fresh ones that crumbled easily.
Parents often opt for snacks like little crunchies and yogurt melts, thinking they’re safe because they dissolve quickly—if they’re fresh! Pay attention to the packaging; snacks like Gerber lil’ Crunchies are designed for toddlers who can grasp food. But if those treats aren’t stored properly or consumed within the recommended time frame, they can become hard and dangerous.
While the dad in the viral story was lucky enough to dislodge the choking hazard from his child’s throat, it serves as a crucial reminder that we should all know how to handle these emergencies. The American Red Cross offers training sessions—both online and in-person—to equip parents with the necessary skills. Check out this link to find a class near you. Babycenter also features a step-by-step guide on how to manage choking, reviewed by the American Red Cross.
It’s a somber topic, but being prepared can save lives. And don’t forget the dad’s advice: “So again, this is just a warning to all parents…read the labels!” For more resources on family planning, you can explore this excellent guide and consider learning more about fertility solutions.
In summary, knowing how to respond when a child is choking is vital for all parents. Stay informed about the snacks you provide, and don’t hesitate to seek out training to ensure you’re prepared for the unexpected.