Marshmallow

6 months old +:

Avoid due to increased choking risk.

12 months old +:

At this age, tiny freeze-dried marshmallows (sometimes included in hot chocolate mixes or in some cereals) can be offered on occasion as long as they're served in liquid (like cooled hot chocolate or milk). Avoid serving loose, dry freeze-dried marshmallows, as they pose a greater choking risk this way.

24 months old +:

At this age, most toddlers can have melted marshmallow, like in the form of rice krispie treats or s’mores. Just make sure, for a snack like s’mores, that the marshmallow is no longer hot. 

As long as a child has had lots of practice with chewable and challenging foods, does not stuff their mouth with food, can follow directions, and is safely seated and supervised, you can try offering a large, fresh marshmallow for taking bites from. Bigger marshmallows are better here, as the child is more likely to take bites rather than pop the whole piece of food in their mouth. Demonstrate to the child how by taking your own marshmallow, taking a small bite, and then showing them the bitten marshmallow in your hand. Start by only offering one large marshmallow at a time, to pace the practice.

Mini marshmallows pose a greater choking risk than larger kinds, since they are closer in size to a child’s airway and more likely to be shoveled in the mouth without thorough chewing, so approach serving these with even more caution. When you feel the child is ready, some 2 year olds may be ready to try mini marshmallows. Only serve mini marshmallows when the child is seated and safely supervised. Start by only offering one or two at a time, and model how to eat one: show taking one at a time and chewing thoroughly before taking another one. Make sure the child is done chewing and their mouth is clear before letting them get down from their chair and walk around, as eating while walking, running, and playing increases the risk of choking.