What to Do If Your Child Swallows a Toy

Kids are naturally curious—and sometimes, that curiosity leads to putting small objects in their mouths. Coins, buttons, toy parts, and even batteries can be swallowed in seconds, especially by toddlers. While many swallowed objects pass through the digestive system without issues, some can cause serious complications.

If your child swallows a toy, don’t panic—but do act quickly. Here’s a step-by-step guide from Northern Nevada CPR to help you handle the situation safely.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

Your reaction sets the tone for your child. Panicking can increase fear and make it harder to respond effectively. Ask yourself:

• Is my child choking or breathing normally?

• What exactly did they swallow?

• When did it happen?

Your next steps depend on whether the object is lodged in the airway (choking emergency) or has already been swallowed into the stomach.

Scenario 1: Choking on a Toy

If the toy is stuck in your child’s throat and they can’t breathe, cry, cough, or talk, this is a true emergency.

What to Do:

• Infants under 1 year old:

  • Give 5 back blows followed by 5 chest thrusts.

  • Repeat until the object comes out or the infant becomes unresponsive.

  • If the infant goes limp or stops breathing, call 911 and begin infant CPR immediately.

  
  

• Children over 1 year old:

  • Perform the Heimlich maneuver (abdominal thrusts) until the object is expelled or the child becomes unresponsive.

  • If the child collapses, call 911 and start CPR.

  
  

Knowing CPR and choking rescue techniques can make all the difference. That’s why Northern Nevada CPR provides hands-on training for parents, teachers, and caregivers.

Scenario 2: Swallowed but Not Choking

If your child swallowed a toy but is breathing normally and not showing signs of distress, the object has likely passed into the stomach.

What to Do:

• Do not induce vomiting.

• Do not give food or drinks right away.

• Call your pediatrician or Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) for guidance.

They may advise you to:

• Monitor stools for the object to pass.

• Watch for symptoms of blockage, such as:

  • Vomiting

  • Abdominal pain or swelling

  • Refusing to eat

  • Bloody stools or no bowel movements

  
  

Seek Emergency Care If:

• The object is sharp, pointed, or long (like toy swords or Lego rods).

• The swallowed item is larger than 1 inch wide.

• Your child has drooling, gagging, chest pain, or difficulty swallowing.

• The toy contains magnets or button batteries (these are medical emergencies—head to the ER immediately).

Watch for Warning Signs in the Days After

Even if your child seems fine, monitor for:

• Ongoing coughing or wheezing

• Sudden lethargy or unusual behavior

• Digestive issues or changes in bathroom habits

• Fever or abdominal swelling

If anything feels “off,” don’t wait—contact a doctor right away.

Prevention Tips for Parents

• Keep small toys and parts out of reach of young children.

• Follow age guidelines on toy packaging.

• Get down to your child’s level and look for choking hazards.

• Teach older kids to keep their toys away from siblings.

• Be extra cautious with magnets and button batteries found in household items.

Conclusion

If your child swallows a toy, staying calm and knowing the right steps can prevent serious harm. Always call your pediatrician or seek emergency care if you’re unsure.

And remember—being trained in CPR and First Aid gives you the confidence to act fast in these scary moments. At Northern Nevada CPR, we provide American Heart Association–certified CPR and First Aid classes in Reno and surrounding areas, so parents, caregivers, and teachers are always prepared.