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This is a life-threatening emergency. Call 911 immediately, then follow these steps while waiting for help.
CPR for Toddlers and Children (1-8 Years)
Content reviewed against published AHA, Red Cross, AAP guidelines
Last reviewed:
Child CPR is used when a child aged 1-8 years is unresponsive and not breathing normally. It involves chest compressions and rescue breaths to maintain circulation and oxygen delivery until emergency help arrives.
Immediate actions
- Call 911 immediately
- Check for responsiveness — tap and shout "Are you okay?"
- DO NOT: Do NOT delay CPR to search for a pulse if you are unsure
Step-by-Step Response
Check responsiveness
Tap the child and shout "Are you okay?" Look for normal breathing (not gasps). If unresponsive and not breathing normally, proceed.
Call 911
If someone is with you, have them call 911 and get an AED. If alone, perform 2 minutes of CPR first, then call 911.
Position the child
Place child on their back on a firm, flat surface. Kneel beside the child's chest.
Begin chest compressions
Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest on the lower half of the breastbone. For larger children, use two hands. Compress at least 2 inches deep at a rate of 100-120 per minute.
Open the airway
After 30 compressions, tilt the head back and lift the chin to open the airway. Look for visible obstructions.
Give 2 rescue breaths
Pinch the nose shut. Create a seal over the child's mouth. Give 2 breaths (1 second each). Watch for the chest to rise with each breath.
Continue CPR cycles
Continue cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths. Push hard and fast. Allow full chest recoil between compressions.
Use AED when available
Turn on AED and follow voice prompts. Use pediatric pads if available. If only adult pads are available, use them but do not let pads touch. Resume CPR immediately after shock.
What NOT to Do
- ✕Do NOT delay CPR to search for a pulse if you are unsure
- ✕Do NOT compress over the xiphoid process (bottom tip of breastbone)
- ✕Do NOT lean on the chest between compressions — allow full chest recoil
- ✕Do NOT interrupt compressions for more than 10 seconds
- ✕Do NOT give up — continue CPR until help arrives or child responds
When to Seek Help
Call 911 if:
- Child is unresponsive
- Child is not breathing or only gasping
- Child has no pulse
- Any situation requiring CPR
Go to ER if:
- After any CPR event — even if child appears to recover, they need evaluation
- Child had a near-drowning event
- Child was unresponsive for any period of time
Call your doctor if:
- After any CPR event, the child needs emergency medical evaluation
- Child was briefly unresponsive but recovered before EMS arrived
Age-Specific Guidance
1-3 years
Use one hand for compressions. Most common causes of cardiac arrest in this age group are choking, drowning, and respiratory illness. If alone, give 2 minutes of CPR before calling 911.
3-8 years
May need two hands for compressions depending on the child's size. Drowning, trauma, and poisoning are common causes. Check that compressions achieve at least 2 inches of depth.
8+ years
Use adult CPR technique with two hands. Compress at least 2 inches. Consider cardiac causes in older children, especially during sports activities.
Prevention
- Supervise children around water at all times
- Keep medications, cleaning products, and small objects out of reach
- Ensure safe sleep environments
- Learn CPR — take a certified class and refresh training every 2 years
- Keep an AED accessible if possible
- Childproof the home to prevent falls, choking, and poisoning
Frequently asked questions
Should I call 911 for cpr for toddlers and children (1-8 years)?
What should I do first?
What should I NOT do?
How can I prevent this?
Sources
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources
Related Emergency Guides
Bottom line
This is a serious emergency. Always call 911 first, then follow the steps above while help is on the way.
You are doing the right thing by learning what to do in an emergency. Being prepared is one of the best things you can do for your child.