Key differences between the paediatric and the adult respiratory system include...

Children's upper airways are: shorter & narrower; they have a small oral cavity with a relatively larger tongue; they have a long floppy epiglottis which is prone to swelling - meaning children air prone to airway obstruction. The bifurcation of the trachea is higher in children and a more acute angle into R&L bronchi - means it is easier for infection to enter the lungs