Choking is one of the most frightening emergencies any parent can face. It can happen quickly, quietly, and often during completely ordinary moments—mealtimes, play, or even when a child is exploring the world the way children do: by putting things in their mouth.
The good news? With the right knowledge, parents and carers can react confidently and effectively. This guide breaks down the essential, life-saving steps every parent should know.
Why Children Are More Likely to Choke
Children choke more easily than adults for a few key reasons:
Their airways are smaller, so even tiny objects can block breathing.
They explore with their mouths, especially toddlers.
Their chewing skills aren’t fully developed, meaning foods may not be properly broken down.
They can be easily distracted while eating—running, laughing, or talking.
Knowing the risks helps you prevent choking, but you also need to know how to respond if it happens.
Spotting the Signs of Choking
There are two types of choking situations: mild and severe.
Mild Choking (Partial Blockage)
The child may:
Be coughing strongly (this is good—let them continue)
Be able to make noise or speak
Appear distressed but still breathing
What to do:
Encourage them to cough. Stay close and calm.
Severe Choking (Complete Blockage)
The child may:
Be unable to cough or make noise
Struggle to breathe
Turn red, then blue
Panic or clutch their throat
Eventually become unresponsive if not treated
This is a medical emergency—immediate action is needed.
What To Do If a Child Is Choking For a Child Over 1 Year Old
1. Encourage them to cough if they can.
If they cannot cough or are not clearing the blockage:
Give up to 5 back blows:
Stand to the side and slightly behind the child.
Support their chest with one hand.
Give 5 firm blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand.
2. If this doesn’t work:
Give up to 5 abdominal thrusts (Heimlich manoeuvre)
Stand behind the child.
Place your arms around their waist.
Make a fist and place it just above their belly button.
Pull sharply inwards and upwards.
3. Alternate 5 back blows and 5 abdominal thrusts until:
The object comes out
The child can breathe
Or they become unresponsive
If the child becomes unresponsive, start CPR and call 999 immediately.
What To Do If a Baby Under 1 Year Old Is Choking
Babies require a different approach.
1. Give up to 5 back blows:
Lay the baby face-down along your forearm.
Support the head.
Deliver 5 blows between the shoulder blades.
2. If ineffective, give up to 5 chest thrusts:
Turn the baby face-up.
Place two fingers in the centre of the chest (just below the nipple line).
Push down sharply about one-third of the chest depth.
3. Alternate back blows and chest thrusts until the object is cleared or help arrives.
Do NOT use abdominal thrusts on a baby.
Aftercare: What To Do Once the Child Is Breathing Again
Even if the item comes out and the child seems fine, always have them checked by a medical professional. Abdominal thrusts and chest thrusts can cause internal injuries.
Call 999 if:
The child is still struggling to breathe
They inhaled the object into their airway
You're at all concerned about injuries
Easy Ways to Prevent Choking at Home
A few simple habits can dramatically reduce risk:
Keep mealtimes calm—no running, laughing or talking with food in the mouth.
Cut foods like grapes, cherry tomatoes, and sausages into long strips (not rounds).
Avoid whole nuts for children under 5.
Keep small objects out of reach: batteries, coins, beads, toys with small parts.
Encourage children to sit down while eating.
Keep a close eye on toddlers during playtime and meals.
Why First Aid Training Is Essential for Parents
Knowing what to do in those critical seconds can be the difference between life and tragedy. First aid skills don’t just give you knowledge—they give you confidence.
A choking incident is overwhelming, but with proper training, parents can react quickly, correctly, and calmly.
If you or your group would like hands-on training in paediatric first aid or family-focused sessions, TEX Training offers professional, practical courses designed to give you the skills you need.
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