Preventing and Responding to Choking in Babies and Children

Babies and young children naturally explore with their mouths, and because their airways are smaller and their chewing and swallowing skills are still developing, they are more at risk of choking. Foods like grapes, sausages, popcorn, and hard lollies, as well as household objects such as coins, button batteries, and toy parts, are some of the most common hazards.

Recognising the Signs

Choking can look different depending on whether the airway is partly or completely blocked:

• Partial blockage: Your child may cough, gag, or wheeze. They might look panicked or red in the face but can still get some air through.

• Complete blockage: Your child won’t be able to breathe, cry, or speak. Their face may change colour, and they may quickly become limp or collapse.

Your Step-by-Step Action Plan

Remember: 5 & 5 can save a life — up to five back blows, then up to five chest thrusts, alternating until the airway clears or help arrives.

Babies (under 1 year)

1. Call 000 immediately.

2. Place your baby face-down along your forearm, with their head lower than their body.

3. Give up to five firm back blows between the shoulder blades.

4. If the object hasn’t cleared, turn them over and give up to five chest thrusts with two fingers in the middle of the chest.

5. Alternate 5 & 5 until the airway clears or help arrives.

   
   

Children (over 1 year)

1. If they can cough strongly, encourage them to keep coughing.

2. If not, lean them forward and give up to five back blows between the shoulder blades.

3. If that doesn’t work, give up to five chest thrusts using the heel of your hand.

4. Alternate 5 & 5 until the blockage clears or the ambulance arrives.

If your child becomes unresponsive at any stage, start CPR immediately.

Prevention Made Simple

• Cut foods into smaller, safer pieces (slice grapes, chop sausages, avoid whole nuts).

• Always sit children down to eat—no walking, running, or lying down with food.

• Keep small objects and choking hazards well out of reach.

Tools That Help You Stay Calm

In a real choking scare, it’s easy to freeze or panic. That’s why I created the Choking Child Magnet & Poster Set—so the steps are right in front of you when you need them most.

• A6 fridge magnet: quick reference when seconds count.

• A3 poster: ideal for kitchens, play areas, or next to your first aid kit for everyday learning.

These simple, visual tools give families the confidence to respond quickly and calmly.

See the Choking Child Magnet & Poster Set here

Choking can happen suddenly, but it doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With a clear action plan, simple prevention strategies, and the right tools on hand, you can step in with confidence when your child needs you most. At The Sick Sense, it’s all about practical, easy-to-use resources—so you don’t just know what to do, you feel ready to do it.

Disclaimer

This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or accredited first aid training. Always call 000 in Australia if your child is choking and consider enrolling in a certified first aid course to practice these skills.