Children of all ages love popcorn. This treat is also enjoyed by adults, who often take it with them to watch movies. However, for children, consuming popcorn can be associated with certain risks. One of the most serious dangers is choking. For example, in one story, a mother from America shared her experience when her 2-year-old son was eating popcorn while watching a movie. Suddenly, the boy began to cough severely, and he developed a fever. The woman called an ambulance, as the cough escalated into persistent fits. Doctors found that popcorn had entered the child's lungs, causing severe inflammation. The kernel was removed, and the little boy recovered. The mother learned her lesson and no longer gave her child popcorn. Pediatricians repeatedly emphasize that children should not eat popcorn until they are 4 years old. Why is it that children under 4 should not eat popcorn? It is believed that children under 4 are most susceptible to choking while eating. At this age, they are still not good at chewing food well and may swallow it in chunks that can get stuck. By this time, children begin to get their molars, which help to better grind food before swallowing. Additionally, children under 4 often get distracted during meals. They may talk, fidget in their chairs, or play, which increases the risk of choking, especially on small popcorn kernels that can easily enter the airway. What else? According to pediatricians, not only popcorn is dangerous for children under 4. Experts also do not recommend giving such foods as: Hot dogs Candy Nuts and seeds Raw carrots Apples Whole grapes Peanut butter Marshmallows and chewing gum.
