What is the normal respiratory rate range for a child?

• A. 15-30 breaths per minute
• B. 10-20 breaths per minute
• C. 25-40 breaths per minute
• D. 12-22 breaths per minute

Answer: (A)

Normal respiratory rate in children sits higher than in adults and changes with age. For a typical school‑aged child at rest, about 15–30 breaths per minute is normal. This reflects their higher metabolic rate and smaller lung volumes, which lead to more breaths per minute to meet oxygen needs. Rates above 30 suggest tachypnea and potential respiratory illness or distress, while rates well below 15 could indicate bradypnea. When evaluating, have the child calm and comfortable and count for a full minute, since fever, feverish illness, anxiety, or recent activity can temporarily raise the rate. Remember that younger children naturally have higher rates, and the rate tends to decrease with age toward adult values (around 12–20 in adolescence).