Firm Fruits and Vegetables
Apples, carrots, pears, bananas and melons can be risky if swallowed in large chunks. The coin shape may seem fun, but can still lodge in the throat and block breathing. Instead, cut them into matchsticks. You can also serve carrots well-cooked.
Hard Candy
Some candy tastes so good kids just want to swallow it—eek! That hard shape can block their airway, so it’s best to skip hard candy all together. For a sweet treat, drizzle chocolate on fruit or cut a peanut butter cup into small pieces.