What to Do If Your Child Swallows Something: A Guide for Parents

Quick Action Checklist

• Stay calm and assess if your child is breathing normally.
• If your child is coughing, encourage them to cough it out.
• Check their mouth to see if the object is visible and easily removable without pushing it further down.
• Do NOT perform a finger sweep unless you see the object clearly and can easily remove it.
• If your child is choking (unable to breathe, cough or make sounds), call emergency services immediately (112 in Europe).
• Begin age-appropriate first aid for choking if trained to do so.

What's Happening

When a child swallows an object, it can either pass through the digestive tract without issues or cause a blockage in the airway or digestive tract. Infants and young children often explore their environment by putting objects in their mouths, making this a common occurrence. The main concern is airway obstruction, which can prevent breathing and requires immediate attention.

Step-by-Step Guide

0-3 Months

At this age, babies are less likely to swallow objects as they have limited ability to grasp. If choking occurs, check for breathing and perform infant CPR if necessary.

3-6 Months

These infants can grasp toys. Keep small objects out of reach and follow the same steps as for 0-3 months if an object is swallowed.

6-12 Months

Check breathing and encourage coughing. If choking, use back blows and chest thrusts.

1-2 Years

Encourage coughing if the child is able. If choking, use back blows and abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver for toddlers).

2-3 Years

Older toddlers may be able to cough more effectively. Monitor closely and follow choking first aid if needed.

3-4 Years

Teach children about the dangers of putting objects in their mouths. Follow the same choking first aid steps as needed.

4-6 Years

Children at this age can understand instructions better. Educate them, and if choking occurs, follow age-appropriate first aid.

What NOT to Do

• Do not panic as this can alarm your child.
• Avoid forcing vomiting unless advised by a healthcare professional.
• Do not attempt to retrieve the object blindly with your fingers.

When to Call the Doctor / Emergency

• Call emergency services (112) if your child shows signs of choking: inability to breathe, cough, or make sounds.
• Seek medical attention if your child has persistent coughing, wheezing, or noisy breathing.
• Consult a doctor if your child shows signs of distress, pain, or if they swallowed a sharp object, battery, or magnet.

Prevention Tips

• Keep small objects, batteries, and magnets out of reach.
• Supervise children during playtime and mealtime.
• Educate older children about the dangers of swallowing objects.

Sources

• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• National Health Service (NHS)