Mini First Aid's top safety tips for babies and children
At Mini First Aid, we believe that a little knowledge goes a long way.
As your baby grows and becomes more curious, every new milestone brings exciting opportunities to learn and explore. Alongside all the fun, it's also helpful to know how to keep your little one safe as they develop. Our practical safety tips and simple first aid advice are designed to help you feel confident and prepared, so you can relax and enjoy every stage of your child's journey with greater peace of mind.
Everyday safety, kits and classes
Top of the list is to attend a baby first aid class. Knowing what to do in an emergency could literally save a life, and pre-crawling babies are welcome. It is also worth asking the adults who will be spending time with your baby, grandparents and carers, to attend a first aid class too, and don't forget that siblings can attend first aid classes designed for children.
Make sure you have a first aid kit in your change bag or under your pram, and another at home in the room you spend most of your time in. Everyone should know where the first aid kit is kept, and it's worth replenishing supplies regularly. Where possible, baby proof your home to minimise the risk of accidents. It also helps to find out which neighbours are at home at particular times of day, so that if you ever need emergency help, you know who you can call on. And make sure you know where your nearest paediatric A&E is located, as not all hospitals have one.
Keep one first aid kit in your change bag or under the pram, and a second at home where you spend most of your time. Make sure everyone in the household knows where they are.
Weaning, and the fear of choking
For parents weaning their babies, the possibility of choking is really scary, and there are also risks with babies putting so many things in their mouths. We must show our babies and children that grown-ups eat sitting down, chew properly, and never put too much in our mouths. We should never leave a baby or child eating without supervision, because silence is the sign of choking. And most importantly, make sure you learn how to deal with choking at a first aid class.
Never leave a baby or child eating without supervision. Silence is the sign of choking.
Bumps to the head
Everyone dreads a bump on the head, especially as your baby becomes mobile. Why is it they seem to spend their time bumping into things? Most bumps are nothing to worry about, but it is better to be cautious, particularly with bumps to the head. Use a cold gel pack, such as our Teddy, on the site of the injury to bring down swelling. Symptoms are often delayed, so stay with your child to monitor any changes in their behaviour or symptoms for at least 24 hours.
Any signs of sickness, drowsiness, dizziness or unnatural behaviour could be concussion. You need to get your baby to A&E as soon as possible.
Trust your instincts
It is better never to be complacent. Go with your gut instinct. If you are not sure whether you need to go to the hospital, or if your baby or child is not acting in a way that is normal for them, call 111 for advice on a minor injury or, if life-threatening, call 999.
It is never too early to explain to your baby what is happening if they do get hurt. You can reassure your child, telling them what you are doing: "We're just going to get you all cleaned up." If you are confident around medical practitioners, your children will learn that if they are hurt, whilst they might be in pain, a grown-up is going to look after them.
It is never too early to explain to your baby what is happening if they do get hurt.
About Mini First Aid
Mini First Aid was founded in January 2014 by mum of six, Kate Ball, with a mission to deliver high-quality baby and child first aid classes to parents and carers. Since then, the business has grown rapidly and now trains over 2,000 people every week across the UK in basic and lifesaving first aid. In 2021, Kate and her husband Matt appeared on Dragons' Den and secured investment from Sara Davies MBE.
Mini First Aid are a leading voice in first aid training and education, and proud to be the top provider of paediatric first aid across the UK.
Mini First Aid won Gold at the Mother&Baby Awards 2026 for Best Pregnancy Product with its Baby & Child First Aid class for Parents & Carers. This recognition reflects the trust families place in the brand and the practical, confidence-boosting skills the classes provide. For those who want to build even more confidence, Mini First Aid's Baby & Child First Aid classes offer a friendly, hands-on way to learn essential skills that could make all the difference in an emergency.
