How You Can Protect Your Little Ones This Easter

Whether you’re dying eggs, enjoying a backyard egg hunt, or sitting down for a big meal together, there’s something so special about this spring holiday season. As the CPR and Safety Lady, I love seeing families make memories. I also want to make sure those Passover and Easter memories are happy and safe ones.

With all the excitement, it’s easy to overlook a few simple safety precautions. Here are some of my favorite Easter safety tips to help you avoid common accidents and be prepared if something does go wrong.

Watch Out for Choking Hazards During Egg Hunts

Colorful plastic eggs are fun to hide and even more fun to find, but they can also pose a choking risk for little ones, especially if they’re filled with candy, coins, or small toys.

Here’s how to keep your egg hunt safe:

• Make sure plastic eggs close tightly so nothing spills out.

• Choose age-appropriate treats. Skip hard candies or toys with small parts for toddlers and young kids.

• Remind older children not to put eggs or candy in their mouths until an adult checks them.

• Keep an eye on children at all times during the hunt. It only takes a second for a curious child to put something dangerous in their mouth.

If a child starts to cough, gag, or can't breathe, knowing how to respond quickly is critical. That's why I recommend that every caregiver and parent learn child and infant choking relief techniques.

Keep Small Toys and Treats Out of Reach

Easter baskets are often packed with fun little surprises like mini bunnies, plastic chicks, jelly beans, and more. These tiny items can be tempting for babies and toddlers who love to explore with their mouths.

To stay safe:

• Store Easter baskets out of reach until you're ready to enjoy them together.

• Supervise younger kids while they open and play with items from their baskets.

• Check labels for age recommendations on toys and candy. Children under 4 years and younger should not be offered hard candy, sticky or chewy food such as taffy, marshmallows, caramel, and gummies.

• Items smaller than 1 1/4 inches around or 2 1/4 inches long can be a choking hazard for children under age 4. Watch out for decorations on Easter baskets themselves, too, like small beads.

Here are some suggestions for what to put in the Easter basket for babies and toddlers:

• Hollow chocolate eggs that can break into pieces

• Large plastic eggs

• Board books

• Plush toys

• Bath toys

• Stacking blocks

• Coloring books

• Age appropriate puzzles and crafts

Think of it this way. If something can fit through a toilet paper roll, it can be a choking hazard for small children.

Be Allergy Aware

Many Easter treats contain common allergens like nuts, dairy, and eggs. If you're hosting family or friends, be sure to ask ahead about any food allergies and label dishes clearly.

If someone has a known allergy:

• Make sure they carry their epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed.

• Keep allergen-free snacks or candy on hand so no one feels left out.

• Know the signs of a severe allergic reaction, also called anaphylaxis. These can include swelling of the lips or face, difficulty breathing, hives, or vomiting.

If you suspect someone is having an allergic reaction, call 911 immediately and give epinephrine if available. Seconds matter in these situations.

Have a Plan for Emergencies

Easter is a great time to brush up on your emergency plan. If you’re hosting:

• Keep your phone charged and within reach.

• Know the address of the location in case you need to give it to emergency responders.

• Have a basic first aid kit nearby. Include items like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and antihistamines.

And remember, CPR and first aid training can make all the difference if something unexpected happens. Being prepared doesn't take the fun out of the holiday. It gives you peace of mind so you can enjoy it even more.

Wishing you a happy, safe, and sweet Passover and Easter, from my family to yours.