Small beads, latex balloons, and coins present a choking hazard for young children.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only beads
• D. Only balloons

Answer: (A)

Choking hazards come from items small enough to block a child’s airway if swallowed or inhaled. Small beads, latex balloons, and coins all fit that risk because young children often put objects in their mouths and these items can slip into the throat easily. Beads and coins are hard, smooth, and compact, so a single piece can become lodged and obstruct breathing. Latex balloons are especially dangerous; even a partially deflated or torn balloon can be swallowed or aspirated, and balloons have been a leading cause of choking and suffocation in young children. This is why the statement is true: these items pose choking hazards for young children. To reduce risk, keep such items out of reach, supervise play, use age-appropriate toys, and handle balloons with extra care, discarding broken pieces and avoiding balloons for very young children.