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Greater Houston (St. Luke’s Health) Jun 11, 2025 1 mins read

What to Do If Your Child Swallows a Foreign Object

Learn immediate steps to take if your child ingests a foreign object and when to seek medical attention.

As you think about what to buy your children for the holiday season, it is important to keep toy safety in mind. Choking on or swallowing small pieces from toys is a possibility for young children. Keep your children safe and know what to do if your child swallows a foreign object.

Toy Safety Tips

  • Be sure the toy is age appropriate.
  • Avoid toys with small parts.
  • Avoid toys that launch projectiles.
  • Avoid toys with electric heating.
  • Avoid toys with sharp parts or edges.
  • Demonstrate how to safely use each toy.
  • Supervise your children as they use the toy.
  • Throw away all wrappings and containers immediately.
  • Only get toys that have the “ASTM” safety label.
  • Consider the safety hazard of the leading cause of toy-related injury.