Choking Risks
Keep in mind that young children — especially ages 2 to 3 years — are at risk of choking on food. They remain at risk until they can chew and swallow better by about age 4. Always supervise children during meals and snacks.
Foods that may cause choking include…
- Hot dogs
- Nuts and seeds
- Raw carrots
- Raisins
- Chunks of meat
- Peanut butter (spoonfuls)
- Whole grapes
- Marshmallows
- Round or hard candy
- Chips
- Popcorn
- Pretzels
- Raw celery
- Cherries with pits
- Large pieces of fruit with skin
Some foods can be offered if you change the form. For example,
1) Cut hot dogs lengthwise into thin strips.
2) Steam carrots or celery until slightly soft, then cut into sticks.
3) Cut grapes or cherries into small pieces.