Choking on food? Find out the best way to prevent a child's airway from getting blocked

Risks of choking

• Food: Candies, marshmallows, big pieces of apples, meat, nuts, seeds, peas, hot dog sausages
• Household items: Coins, batteries, magnets, pen covers, jewelry, garden objects like pebbles
• Toys: plastic balls, marbles, balloons

1. Make the child sit straight while eating: So that the food does not get stuck anywhere inside. Small children take a lot of time to finish their eating and so they get bored and lie down or run, which can be hazardous. So always make them sit on a chair and talk and entertain them while they finish eating.
2. Keep reminding the child to chew: It is important as a parent to keep reminding the child not to gulp down the food but chew slowly.
3. Keep food pieces small: Till the child is old enough to chew properly on his own, make sure to put small pieces on the plate.
4. Avoid bottle while sleeping: Toddlers who fall asleep with a bottle can choke with the liquid going to their lungs, so avoid that.

1. Popcorn: The hard and uneven texture of popcorn poses a danger as it might get stuck on the child's throat and block the air passage.
2. Nuts and seeds: This food group is very healthy for growing children but in full form should be avoided. Powder them and mix them with food to give these superfoods to your kids
3. Grapes: The size and shape of grapes can plug small children's airways
4. Raw vegetables: Round and hard vegetables like carrots, celery, and broccoli can be easily lodged in the back of the throat and cause choking.
5. Apples: The skin of apples can be risky for toddlers.