What should you do if a child is conscious and choking?

When a child is conscious and choking, encouraging them to cough is the most appropriate response. Coughing is the body's natural mechanism for clearing the airway, and if the child's airway is partially obstructed, allowing them to cough can help dislodge the object causing the obstruction. This method is safe and allows the child to utilize their own strength to resolve the issue.

Other methods, such as performing abdominal thrusts or slapping the back vigorously, are not recommended for a conscious child who is still able to cough effectively. While these actions may be appropriate for a child who is unable to breathe or cough, they could potentially cause more harm if done when the child can still manage to expel the obstruction themselves. Giving water to drink is also inappropriate, as it could lead to further choking or aspiration. Thus, encouraging the child to cough while remaining calm and supportive is the best first step in this situation.