Red Cross Babysitting Practice Exam 2026 - Free Babysitting Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

Giving back blows to a choking child is done between the shoulder blades. This area is chosen because it is effective for helping to dislodge an object that may be stuck in the airway. When delivering back blows, positioning the child slightly forward allows gravity to assist in the effort, enhancing the chances that the obstruction will come free.

The technique involves using the heel of your hand to tap forcefully but gently between the shoulder blades. The goal is to create enough force to dislodge whatever is causing the choking while minimizing the risk of injury. This method is part of a comprehensive approach that includes both back blows and abdominal thrusts (formerly known as the Heimlich maneuver) when responding to a child who is choking.

Other locations mentioned, such as the chest, stomach, or lower back, would not provide the same effectiveness for relieving choking and could potentially cause harm instead of helping.