Choking Hazards

Round, firm foods are common choking dangers. The following foods can be choking hazards:

• Hot dogs


• Nuts and seeds


• Chunks of meat or cheese


• Whole grapes


• Hard, gooey or sticky candy


• Popcorn


• Chunks of peanut butter


• Raw vegetables


• Raisins


• Chewing gum

Several years ago, when I was a new mom, I read an article on choking prevention, and it made me feel so panicky that I've never forgotten it. Now, anytime I go out and leave my kids at home, I'm afraid they'll choke on something, and I won't be there to Heimlich them. I do realize this fear is somewhat irrational, but whenever I leave, I always feel like I have to remind them of the snacking rules for when I'm not home: no hot dogs, no popcorn, no running around with food in your mouth, no talking with food in your mouth, no laughing with food in your mouth. And if anyone chokes, one of you call 911 and another one run as fast as you can to the neighbor's for help (she's a nurse).

The kids have come to accept that this is something they will have to listen to at least a few times a week for the rest of their lives. But a few days ago, Matthew called me while I was out to ask if he could make hot dogs for himself and the other kids. Before I could say a single word, he started reciting the script, all in one breath, to soothe his crazy mother. "I'll-cut-them-in-half-lengthwise-and-then-into-small-pieces-and-we'll-sit-down-when-we-eat-and-we-won't-talk-or-laugh."

He's learned to handle me pretty well.