First aid for children differs from adult care due to physiological, developmental, and emotional factors. Here are the key differences:

Airway and Breathing:
Smaller Airway: Children's airways are narrower, making them more prone to blockages. Use gentler breaths during rescue breathing (just enough to raise the chest).
Choking: For infants (under 1 year), use back blows and chest thrusts instead of abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) used in adults.
CPR Ratios: For infants, use two fingers for chest compressions (1.5 inches deep); for children (1-8 years), use one or two hands (2 inches deep). The compression rate is 100-120 per minute, the same as adults, but depth and force are less.


Circulation:
Blood Volume: Children have less blood, so even small amounts of blood loss can be critical. Apply gentle pressure to control bleeding.
Shock: Children go into shock faster. Look for signs like pale skin, rapid breathing, or lethargy, and keep them warm and calm.


Burns and Injuries:
Thinner Skin: Children’s skin burns more easily. To prevent tissue damage, cool burns with lukewarm water (not cold) for 10-15 minutes and avoid ice.
Fractures: Children’s bones are softer and more flexible, so fractures may be less obvious (e.g., greenstick fractures). Immobilize suspected fractures gently.


Medication and Dosing:
Dosage: Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen must be weight-based (e.g., 10-15 mg/kg for acetaminophen). Never give aspirin to children due to Reye’s syndrome.
Allergies: Children may not communicate their allergies. Check for medical bracelets or ask caregivers.


Emotional Care:
Communication: Use simple, calm language to explain what you’re doing. Children are scared easily and may not understand medical terms.
Comfort: Stay at their eye level, use a soothing tone, and involve parents/caregivers if possible to reduce anxiety.


Temperature Regulation:
Fever: Children’s fevers spike quickly. A temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) in infants under 3 months or 102°F (39°C) in older children warrants urgent care.
Hypothermia: Children lose heat faster. Wrap them in blankets if cold or wet.


Seizures:
Febrile Seizures: More common in children (6 months to 5 years) due to rapid fever spikes. Protect them from injury during a seizure, but don’t restrain or put anything in their mouth.
Timing: Seizures lasting over 5 minutes or recurring require emergency services.


Foreign Objects:
Children often put objects in their noses, ears, or mouths. Don’t attempt removal unless easily accessible; seek medical help to avoid pushing objects deeper.


Consent and Legal:
Parental Consent: You generally need a parent/guardian’s permission for treatment unless it’s life-threatening. Always document actions taken.


Equipment:
Use pediatric-sized equipment (e.g., smaller bandages, splints, or masks) when available, as adult sizes may not fit or be effective.


General Tips:
Always check their responsiveness gently (tap and call their name).
Call emergency services sooner for children, as they deteriorate faster.
Stay updated on pediatric first aid protocols, as guidelines (e.g., American Red Cross, AHA) evolve.