Toddlers explore the world using a variety of senses and often put objects into their mouths as part of this exploration. Parents and caretakers must check toddlers' environments carefully and remove small, dangerous objects to reduce the chance of choking or otherwise ingesting foreign objects. While coins are the most common object toddlers ingest, small toys, screws, buttons, beads and food chunks also pose a significant risk.
Step 1
Observe your child. Be aware of high-risk objects, such as coins and small beads; place these objects out of the toddler's reach.
Step 2
Watch for symptoms that indicate he has inhaled a small object, such as difficulty breathing, noisy breathing, choking or coughing.
Step 3
Look for symptoms that indicate he may have swallowed a foreign object into his esophagus or stomach, such as abdominal pain, vomiting or fever.
Step 4
Seek emergency medical help if your child shows any difficulty breathing, or if you suspect he has ingested a foreign object.
Tips and Warnings
- Make sure your child's environments are a safe as possible by keeping small objects well out of his reach. Take a CPR class to prepare yourself for emergency situations.
- Small children can choke on food as well as foreign objects. Do not feed toddlers popcorn, whole grapes, carrots or chunks of meat.
