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Not sure what to do? Have an urgent question?

If your child is having symptoms or you don't know the exact substance or amount swallowed, call the Poison Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. This call is free and confidential.

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My Child Ate Crayons

Q: My child ate crayons. Are crayons toxic?

Crayons are minimally toxic. If your child ate crayons, give them a few sips of water and monitor for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea or coughing. Call IPC at 1-800-222-1222 if symptoms develop.

Crayons are minimally toxic .

If your child ate crayons, give them a few sips of water and monitor for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or coughing. Call IPC at 1-800-222-1222 if symptoms develop. This call is free and confidential.

What to know: Crayons

Crayons are also known as brand names like Crayola.
Crayons can be a choking hazard. If your child is choking on a crayon, call 911 immediately.

Toxicity Level

What are toxicity levels?

My child ate crayons. Are crayons toxic?

Crayons are minimally toxic and can cause a mild laxative effect if ingested.

If your child is not having symptoms, give them a few sips of water and watch for vomiting or diarrhea.

Symptoms of Poisoning

Eating crayons can cause an episode of vomiting, diarrhea, or choking.

If your child experiences persistent vomiting, diarrhea or coughing, call IPC at 1-800-222-1222.

Eye Exposure

Crayons may cause irritation if exposed to eyes.
If your child got crayon residue in their eyes, rinse by pouring clean, lukewarm water across the affected eye(s) for 15 minutes.

For more instructions, please see our page on eye exposure information.