No parent wants to imagine a moment when their baby stops breathing. But the truth is, knowing how to perform CPR on a baby could be the difference between life and death — and it is a skill every parent, grandparent, and caregiver should have. According to the American Heart Association, effective bystander CPR can double or even triple a child’s chances of survival. This guide walks you through exactly how to perform CPR on a baby, step by step.
Why Infant CPR Is Different from Adult CPR
Babies are not simply small adults. Their airways are smaller, their lungs are more fragile, and they require a much gentler approach than what you would use on an older child or adult. Understanding these differences is critical before you ever need to act.
For infants under 1 year old, CPR use the heel of your hand for chest compressions and rescue breaths require only a small puff of air — just enough to see the chest rise. Using too much force can cause serious internal injuries.
When Should You Start CPR on a Baby?
Start infant CPR immediately if your baby:
- Is unresponsive and will not wake up when you tap the sole of their foot or call their name
- Is not breathing, or is only gasping
If someone else is present, have them call 911 while you begin CPR. If you are alone, perform 2 minutes of CPR first, then call 911, then return to doing CPR and do not stop until EMS arrives.
How to Perform CPR on a Baby: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Check the Scene and the Baby
Make sure the environment is safe. Lay the baby on a firm, flat surface such as the floor or a table. Tap the baby’s foot gently and shout their name. If there is no response, proceed immediately.
Step 2: Call for Help
Shout for help and have someone call 911. If you are alone, begin CPR first, then call after 2 minutes.
Step 3: Open the Airway
Place one hand on the baby’s forehead and gently tilt the head back to a neutral position — not too far back, as over-tilting can actually close a baby’s airway. Use one finger to lift the chin slightly.
Step 4: Check for Breathing
Look for chest rise, listen for breath sounds, and feel for airflow on your cheek for no more than 10 seconds. Occasional gasping is not normal breathing.
Step 5: Give 2 Rescue Breaths
Cover both the baby’s mouth and nose with your mouth to create a complete seal. Give 2 small, gentle puffs of air — just enough to see the chest rise. Each breath should last about 1 second. If the chest does not rise, reposition the head and try again.
Step 6: Begin Chest Compressions
Place the heel of your hand on the center of the baby’s chest, just below the nipple line. Push down about 1.5 inches — roughly one-third the depth of the chest. Compress at a rate of 100–120 per minute. Allow full chest recoil (the chest to come back up to normal position) between compressions.
Step 7: Continue the CPR Cycle
Perform 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. This is one cycle. Continue until the baby shows signs of life, EMS arrives, or you are physically unable to continue.
Common Mistakes Parents Make During Infant CPR
- Tilting the head too far back, which closes the airway
- Giving breaths that are too large, which can cause air to go into the stomach
- Pressing too hard during compressions
- Stopping too early — keep going until emergency responders take over
- Skipping rescue breaths — for infants, ventilation is especially critical
How to Use an AED on a Baby
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) can be used on babies under 1 year old, though it requires pediatric pads. If only adult pads are available, place one on the chest and one on the back. Always follow the AED prompts and continue CPR until the device analyzes and advises.
Why Hands-On Training Is Essential
Reading a guide is a starting point, but muscle memory built through hands-on practice is what allows you to act calmly and correctly under pressure. Research shows that people who only read about CPR retain far less than those who practice with a manikin and a certified instructor.
At Little Heartbeats CPR, our Newborn Safety Essentials Program gives you live, one-on-one instruction with an American Heart Association-certified instructor. You will practice on your own take-home infant manikin and leave with genuine confidence — not just theoretical knowledge.
Conclusion
Knowing how to perform CPR on a baby is one of the most important skills a parent or caregiver can have. The steps are straightforward, but real confidence comes from practice. Do not wait for an emergency to wish you had learned. Get trained today.
| Ready to Gain Life-Saving Confidence?The Newborn Safety Essentials Program gives you hands-on CPR training with a certified American Heart Association instructor — in under 60 minutes, from the comfort of your home. Book Your Session at LittleHeartbeatsCPR.com |