What is the normal breathing rate for a child?

The normal breathing rate for a child typically ranges from 15 to 30 breaths per minute. This range is understood based on pediatric health guidelines which indicate that children's respiratory rates are generally higher than those of adults due to their smaller lung capacity and higher metabolic rate.

In the context of this question, the chosen answer accurately reflects standard pediatric respiratory physiology, allowing caregivers and medical professionals to assess whether a child is breathing normally, too quickly (tachypnea), or too slowly (bradypnea). This is crucial for recognizing respiratory distress or other medical conditions that may require immediate attention.

Understanding the normal ranges for different age groups aids in effective monitoring and provides a baseline for evaluating respiratory health in children.