Most parenting advice is optional.

This isn’t.

In this Instagram video, Dr. Michael Milobsky—pediatrician, dad of seven, and someone who’s actually had to use these skills—breaks down the three things every parent needs to know about choking.

He’s not speculating. He’s not repeating a checklist. He’s telling you what saved his own child’s life.

Watch the Video

Video and profile screenshot courtesy of Michael Milobsky, MD (@pedsatthemeadows).

Why This Video Matters

Choking doesn’t give you time to Google. By the time you call 911, the damage may already be done. That’s why knowing what to do immediately matters more than knowing what to do perfectly.

Dr. Milobsky’s video cuts through panic and focuses on action—what actually works when a child is choking in front of you.

The Big Idea

Most choking incidents:

  • Happen at home

  • Involve toddlers

  • Occur when kids are eating and moving

The goal isn’t to be calm. The goal is to be decisive.

As Dr. Milobsky explains, hesitation—or doing the wrong thing with good intentions—can make a bad situation worse.

The 3 Rules Every Dad Should Know

1. Don’t Blindly Stick Your Finger in Their Mouth

This is the instinct. And it’s dangerous.

A child’s airway isn’t straight—it’s shaped like a funnel. If you can’t see the object, blindly sweeping with your finger can push it deeper and lodge it permanently.

Rule:
👉 Only try to remove it if you can clearly see and grab it.

2. If They’re Coughing or Making Noise—Let Them

Noise is good.

If your child is coughing, gagging, or making sounds, their body is still working to clear the airway.

Rule:
👉 Don’t interfere yet. Let them cough.

No sound = it’s time to act.

3. Back Blows First, Then Abdominal Thrusts

If your child can’t breathe or make noise:

Step one:
Deliver firm back blows between the shoulder blades. Harder than feels comfortable.

If that doesn’t work:

Step two:
Perform abdominal thrusts just below the breastbone—forcefully, in and up.

That exact sequence is what dislodged the food and saved Dr. Milobsky’s own child.

The Most Important Prevention Tip

Almost every choking incident Dr. Milobsky has seen—including in his own home—had the same setup: A child walking around while eating.

Kids should eat:

  • Sitting down

  • Staying still

  • Fully focused

No snacks on the move. No bites during play.

Simple rule. Massive payoff.

The Real Takeaway

This video isn’t meant to scare you. It’s meant to prepare you.

  • Watch it.
  • Rewatch it.
  • Send it to your partner.

And then hope you never need it.