CPR for Parents and Caregivers
A 2–3 hour parent CPR class teaches infant and child CPR, choking relief, and what to do until 911 arrives. Most cardiac emergencies in kids start with choking, drowning, or breathing problems.
Quick facts
- Designed for non-professional caregivers
- Covers infant, child, and adult CPR + choking
- 2–3 hours, $30–$70
- Certification optional — skills matter most
Why parents should train
Pediatric cardiac arrest is rare, but choking, near-drowning, and respiratory emergencies are not. A short class builds the muscle memory that keeps panic from freezing you.
Pick the right class
'Family & Friends CPR' (AHA) and 'Infant & Child CPR' (Red Cross) are not certifications but are perfect for parents, grandparents, and nannies.
Refresh annually
Skills fade fast. Watch a 5-minute refresher video each year and retake hands-on practice every 2 years.
Frequently asked questions
- Do parents need a CPR certification card?
- Only if a daycare or employer requires it. The skills matter more than the card.
- Can I learn CPR from a YouTube video?
- Videos are a great supplement but cannot evaluate your technique. Take at least one in-person session.
- What age should kids learn CPR?
- Ages 9 and up can perform effective compressions; many schools teach CPR starting in middle school.
Related guides
CPR for Healthcare Providers
Healthcare providers need BLS-level CPR with team dynamics, bag-mask ventilation, and 2-year renewal. Here's how to choose and maintain the right course.
Adult CPR
Learn adult CPR step by step: check responsiveness, call 911, push hard and fast at 100–120 BPM, 2 inches deep, and attach an AED as soon as one arrives.
Child CPR (Ages 1 to Puberty)
Child CPR uses about 2 inches of compression depth and 30:2 (single rescuer) or 15:2 (two rescuers). Give 2 minutes of CPR before leaving to call 911 if alone.
Infant CPR (Under 1 Year)
Infant CPR uses two fingers (single rescuer) or two-thumb encircling hands (two rescuers), about 1.5 inches deep, with a 30:2 or 15:2 ratio.