Choking is one of the most frightening emergencies a parent or caregiver can face. Babies explore the world with their mouths, and even small objects or food pieces can block their airway in seconds. Knowing exactly what to do if your baby is choking can save their life.

These critical skills are a core part of CPR certification for parents and caregivers.

How to Tell If a Baby Is Choking

A choking baby may:

  • Be unable to cry or cough
  • Have weak or no breathing
  • Turn blue or dusky around the lips
  • Appear panicked or silent

If your baby can cough or cry, let them try to clear the airway while you closely supervise.

Step-by-Step: What to Do If Your Baby Is Choking

Step 1: Stay Calm and Call for Help

  • Shout for assistance
  • Call emergency services immediately if you’re alone

Step 2: Give Back Blows

  1. Support the baby’s head and neck
  2. Place the baby face-down along your forearm
  3. Deliver 5 firm back blows between the shoulder blades

These techniques are taught in basic life support certification courses.

Step 3: Perform Chest Thrusts

If the object does not come out:

  1. Turn the baby face-up
  2. Use two fingers in the center of the chest
  3. Give 5 chest thrusts

Alternate between back blows and chest thrusts until the airway clears.

If the Baby Becomes Unresponsive

If the baby stops breathing or becomes unresponsive:

  • Place them on a firm surface
  • Begin infant CPR immediately
  • Call emergency services if not already done

Training through online CPR certification helps caregivers act confidently in these moments.

Get Your CPR Certification Today

What NOT to Do If Your Baby Is Choking

Avoid these common mistakes:

  • Do not perform abdominal thrusts on infants
  • Do not blindly sweep the mouth
  • Do not shake the baby
  • Do not delay emergency care

Preventing Choking in Babies

Reduce choking risks by:

  • Cutting food into small, soft pieces
  • Avoiding hard foods like nuts and grapes
  • Keeping small objects out of reach
  • Supervising all feedings

First aid prevention strategies are emphasized in first aid certification programs.

When to Seek Medical Care

Even if the object is removed:

  • Seek medical evaluation
  • Watch for coughing, wheezing, or breathing changes
  • Monitor your baby closely for several hours

Final Thoughts

Choking emergencies are terrifying—but knowledge turns fear into action. Knowing how to respond immediately can save your baby’s life before professional help arrives.

Every parent should learn these skills—because emergencies don’t wait.

Get Your CPR Certification Today