How a simple rhyme could save your child’s life
AS babies navigate the grown-up world of solid foods, you might find them choking or gagging while attempting to take a mouthful.
But there is a huge difference between the two, and knowing which one your child is experiencing could save their life.
Gagging is very common and a completely normal reflex – especially when your baby is weaning.
This is because babies have very sensitive gag reflexes that are triggered at the very front of their mouths.
The reflex will move further back as they get older and they’ll gag less.
It’s a protective mechanism against choking and is nothing to worry about.
Choking on the other hand happens when a baby’s airway is blocked by food or another object.
This can be very serious and even fatal.
Baby first aid experts from have shared a simple rhyme which can help parents tell the difference between gagging and choking – and it could save a life.
It goes: “If retching, crying or has a cough – keep hands off.
“If silent, panicked and unable to yelp – it’s time for help.”
The team explained in a blog spot that gagging is a “crucial part of oral motor skill development”.
“Please don’t overact when your child gags,” they said.
“Positive reinforcement is key so that gagging can become a learnt behaviour.
“If your child gags, just move the item of food out of the way and cuddle them (no panic party!)”
But if you notice you child go quiet, they could be choking.
They might be able to clear whatever is stuck by coughing, but if they can’t, you will need to help them straight away, the experts said.
This is how you save a child once they start choking, according to the NHS.
- Stand or kneel behind your chid
- Clench your fist and place it between the navel and ribs
- Grasp this hand with your other hand and pull sharply inwards and upwards
- Repeat up to five times
- Make sure you don’t apply pressure to the lower ribcage, as this may cause damage
Call 999 if the blockage doesn’t come out after trying back blows and either chest or abdominal thrusts.
Keep trying this cycle until help arrives.
Even if the object has come out, get medical help.
Part of the object might have been left behind, or your child might have been hurt by the procedure.