Nanny Danielle Manton-Kelly, known as The Enchanted Nanny, has shared a list of foods she’d never give to children under six, as they pose a serious risk of choking
Feeding children a variety of foods is crucial for expanding their taste buds and ensuring they receive a balanced diet.
However, some foods pose a choking risk for younger kids. One nanny has taken to social media to share her wisdom on this topic, revealing five foods she avoids giving to children under six due to their potential choking hazard.
Danielle Manton-Kelly, also known as The Enchanted Nanny, has shared her insights on why certain snacks should be left on the supermarket shelves. First on her list is the traditional round lollipop, which due to its size and hard texture can easily become lodged in a child’s airway. “I just avoid them like the plague,” Danielle advises.
Grapes also make the list, with Danielle warning: “The thing about these foods is they don’t dissolve, they don’t break down, so if they do get stuck, they’re stuck. They’re not going to melt or change shape.” This warning extends to other small fruits and vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes and larger blueberries, which should be cut into smaller pieces before serving.
Cocktail sausages are another culprit, as their skin can be difficult for children to break down, posing a choking risk if they become lodged in the throat. Marshmallows are a choking hazard for tots due to their squishy size and sticky texture.
“If they got lodged in the airway they’re not going to move,” warns Danielle, highlighting the danger. “It’s going to be really, extremely difficult to get that out because they’re light and they’re sticky and they are the size of an air way.”
And it’s not just marshmallows parents need to watch out for – popcorn, being “as light as a feather”, can also get stuck in little ones’ throats, especially if they suddenly inhale while laughing or playing. “If you are giving popcorn to a child above the age of six please make sure they are sitting down and that they’re not distracted while they’re eating it,” Danielle recommends.
This advice follows a nutritionist’s list of 20 foods kids ‘must try’ before hitting five to ward off picky eating habits. A poll of 2,000 parents revealed that fraught meal times have led a third to let their children eat ‘whatever they want’, including nutrient-poor snacks and takeaways.
Dietitian Priya Tew from Aisha insists there are certain foods that are crucial for youngsters to sample in their formative years.
