Grapes and other choking hazards for young children
Whole grapes, nuts, popcorn and hard sweets can get stuck in a young child's airway. The American Academy of Pediatrics says to keep high-risk foods from children until age 4 or older, depending on the child. Round, firm foods like grapes can be served if they are chopped completely into tiny pieces.
Foods to avoid or change for young children: whole grapes, hot dogs, nuts and seeds, popcorn, hard or sticky sweets, chewing gum, raw carrot sticks, apple chunks, sausages, and chunks of meat or cheese.
Small things to keep out of reach: coins, marbles, small balls, balloons, pen caps, toys with small parts, and button batteries, which can also burn inside the body if swallowed. Check under furniture and between cushions. Balloons stay a risk up to age 8.
At mealtimes: have children sit down to eat, and never let them walk, run, play or lie down with food in their mouth. Cut food into pieces no larger than half an inch (about 1.3 cm) and stay with them while they eat. Tell older brothers and sisters not to share these foods or small toys with a younger child.
A child may be choking and need help right away if they: can't breathe, gasp or wheeze, can't talk, cry or make noise, turn bluish, grab at their throat or look panicked, or go limp. If you see these signs, get emergency help straight away.
A certified first aid and CPR course teaches you what to do in those moments, so it's worth finding one near you.
Source: American Academy of Pediatrics, Choking Prevention.