If you’ve ever been around young children, you know that they have a tendency to put things in their noses and ears.

Whether it’s a crayon, a piece of food, or a small toy, having a foreign object blocking your child’s airway can be a scary situation. Here are some steps you can take to help your child when they have put something in their nose or ear.

1. Stay calm

The first and most important thing you can do is stay calm. Panicking can make the situation worse, as your child may become frightened or upset. Instead, take a deep breath and approach the situation with a clear head.

2. Assess the situation

Once you’ve calmed down, assess the situation to determine whether your child has a foreign object in their nose or ear. If you’re unsure, ask your child if they put anything in their nose or ear.

If they’re too young to communicate effectively, look for signs such as crying, irritation, or discharge in the affected area.

3. Don’t try to remove the object yourself

While it may be tempting to try to remove the object yourself, don’t do it. You could accidentally push the object further into your child’s nose or ear, causing even more damage. Instead, seek professional medical help right away.

4. Take your child to the doctor

If your child has something in their nose or ear, take them to the doctor as soon as possible. The doctor can determine the best course of action to safely remove the object, and can also check for any damage or infection that may have occurred.

5. Follow the doctor’s instructions

After your child’s doctor has removed the object or treated any injuries, it’s important to follow their instructions carefully.

This may involve administering medication, keeping the affected area clean and dry, or avoiding certain activities until your child has fully healed.

6. Take preventive measures

Preventing your child from inserting objects into their nose or ear is the best way to avoid this situation altogether.

Keep small objects out of your child’s reach, and make sure that any older siblings or other children who may be around your child are supervised.

7. Teach your child about safety

While it’s impossible to prevent every accident, teaching your child about safety can help them avoid many dangerous situations.

Talk to your child about the importance of not putting things in their nose or ear, and explain the potential consequences if they do.

8. Stay vigilant

Even if you’ve taken steps to prevent your child from putting objects in their nose or ear, accidents can still happen.

Stay vigilant and keep an eye on your child, especially if they’re playing with small objects or seem to be particularly curious about their nose or ears.

9. Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention

If you’re ever unsure about whether your child has something in their nose or ear, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.

Better safe than sorry, and getting professional help quickly can help prevent more serious complications from occurring.

10. Stay calm and be a good role model

Finally, it’s important to stay calm and be a good role model for your child. If they see you panicking or reacting with fear, they’re more likely to become frightened or upset themselves.

By staying calm and reassuring your child that everything will be okay, you can help them feel more secure and reduce their anxiety.