Pre-Empting Teen Smoking

Prevent it before they start

(HealthDayNews) -- The temptation to start smoking cigarettes can be strongest during adolescence. So if you have pre-teens at home, now's the time to steer them away from lighting up.

Here are some suggestions from St. Louis Children's Hospital:

  • Be a role model by not smoking.
  • If you do smoke, discuss your struggle to quit with your kids.
  • Make sure your kids know where you stand on smoking and give reasons for your opinions.
  • Remind them of the costs.
  • Many kids smoke to relieve stress or to help deal with awkward situations. Teach them other ways to handle pressure.

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