Top Choking Hazards for Children

Before my daughter was born in 2008, my husband and I took a new parent CPR class at the local hospital. The first half of the workshop was geared toward preventing choking and accidents in the first place. You know how the saying goes, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." 

I was taught at the CPR class that hot dogs served to children should NEVER be cut into circles because it can block their windpipe. Because of that helpful information, when I give my 2-year-old son hot dogs it's always cut into chewable chunks.

If you read a container of peanuts it specifically says "Not for children under age 6." There's a reason for that.

Popcorn. You know how the kernels get stuck in your teeth? Well try being a toddler and having a kernel stuck in the back of your throat and you don't know how to get it out!

Grapes. Anytime I give my toddler grapes I inspect them for size and firmness before serving them. If it's too big or too hard, I cut it in half. I'd rather be safe than sorry.

Raw carrots. Here's where I've failed. I've given my son tiny little baby carrots, sometimes cut into quarter sticks to ensure they're small enough. But he's still choked 3 times and thrown up. Note to self: no matter how small the carrot stick is, just skip it.

Latex balloons. It's not a food. But popped or broken pieces of a balloon can completely seal your child’s airway. Scary!!!

Read more about other hazards to avoid when it comes to preventing kids from choking.