First Aid for Common Toddler Injuries

Toddlers are adventurous, curious, and always on the move—which means bumps, scrapes, and the occasional scare are all part of the journey. As a parent or caregiver, knowing basic first aid for common toddler injuries can give you the confidence to respond quickly and calmly when accidents happen.

Here’s a helpful guide to managing the most common toddler injuries and when to seek medical attention.

Scrapes and Cuts

• Wash your hands first.

• Gently clean the wound with warm water and mild soap.

• Apply an antibiotic ointment.

• Cover with a clean bandage or adhesive strip.

When to Call the Doctor:

• If the cut is deep, won’t stop bleeding after 10 minutes of pressure, or shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus).

  
  

Bumps and Bruises

• Apply a cold compress or ice pack (wrapped in a towel) for 15–20 minutes to reduce swelling.

• Comfort your child and keep an eye on them for changes in behavior.

When to Seek Help:

• If a bump is on the head and your child vomits, becomes unusually drowsy, or acts confused, seek medical attention immediately.

  
  

Minor Burns

• Remove your toddler from the heat source.

• Cool the burn under cool (not cold) running water for 10–15 minutes.

• Cover loosely with a sterile, non-stick bandage.

• Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain, if appropriate for their age.

Avoid:

• Ice, butter, or ointments not intended for burns.

When to Call a Doctor:

• If the burn blisters, covers a large area, or is on the face, hands, or genitals.

  
  

Bug Bites and Stings

• Wash the area with soap and water.

• Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling.

• Use anti-itch cream or oral antihistamines (if recommended by your pediatrician).

Watch For:

• Signs of an allergic reaction: trouble breathing, swelling of the face/lips, or widespread rash. Call 911 if these occur.

  
  

Knocked-Out Tooth (Baby Tooth)

• Rinse the mouth gently with water.

• Apply gauze to stop bleeding.

• Offer cold water or a cold compress for swelling.

• Do not try to reinsert the tooth.

• Call your child’s dentist promptly.

  
  

Choking

• If your toddler is choking and can’t breathe, cough, or speak, begin the Heimlich maneuver for children:

  • Kneel behind them, place a fist just above the belly button, and give quick upward thrusts.

  • Continue until the object is expelled or they become unresponsive.

    
    

• If the child becomes unconscious, begin CPR and call 911.

  
  

Poisoning

• If your toddler swallows something toxic, do not induce vomiting.

• Call Poison Control immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

• Be ready to share what was swallowed, how much, and when.

  
  

When in Doubt, Get Help

Kids are resilient, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution. If you’re ever unsure whether an injury needs medical care, call your pediatrician or head to urgent care.

Be Prepared

To handle toddler injuries confidently, keep a well-stocked first aid kit that includes:

• Bandages of various sizes

• Antiseptic wipes and ointments

• Cold packs

• Tweezers and scissors

• Digital thermometer

• Children’s pain reliever

• Emergency contact numbers

  
  

Conclusion 

Toddlers are busy exploring their world—and bumps along the way are part of growing up. With basic first aid knowledge, you can turn scary moments into safe recoveries and empower your little one to keep discovering with confidence.