Most of us probably remember anti-smoking or anti-drug campaigns growing up. The message was clear: this is unsafe for kids and should be avoided.
Then, vaping and e-cigarettes entered the scene and were marketed as a “safer” alternative to smoking. These products are heavily promoted to a much broader audience, including teens, through fruity flavors, sleek designs and social media trends.
As parents, it can be hard to know how to address these tricky topics. The experts from On Our Sleeves share practical guidance to help you start conversations that feel informed, natural and effective.
facts to know about vaping
Before talking with your child or teen, it’s important to understand the facts about vaping. These points are intended to help you feel more informed, not to use as a lecture to your child. Long lectures often cause youth to tune out.
- Many e-cigarettes or vapes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive.
- Some teens use vapes to inhale substances other than nicotine, including marijuana or THC products.
- Nicotine impacts brain development in children and teens by impacting memory, concentration, self-control, learning and mood.
- Nicotine use can increase the risk of other types of addiction later in life.
- The aerosol from e-cigarettes or vapes can also contain harmful substances, including:
- Ultrafine particles
- Heavy metals
- Cancer-causing chemicals
- Other chemicals that have been linked to lung disease
why is vaping so appealing to kids?
Several factors make vaping attractive to children and teens:
- Vaping has become very visible online and in public spaces
- Social media influencers often promote and normalize vaping
- Fruity and sweet flavors are especially appealing to younger audiences
- Devices are designed to look trendy, modern and easy to hide
- Kids and teens might want to try it to fit in with peers
do I really need to talk to my child about vaping?
Yes. Avoiding the conversation can unintentionally send the message that vaping is not a serious issue.
- Silence can feel like permission.
- When topics feel “off limits,” kids and teens may avoid asking questions.
- Small, frequent, age-appropriate conversations are often more effective than one big talk.
- Children need accurate information from trusted adults, not just friends or social media.
preparing for a conversation with your child about vaping
You don’t need to perform a perfect script. Everyday moments can create natural opportunities to talk.
Try starting the conversation when:
- You see someone vaping in public
- A vaping advertisement appears online
- Your child mentions vaping in school or among friends
Focus on curiosity instead of judgment. Ask open-ended questions like:
- “What have you heard about vaping?”
- “Do you know anyone who has tried vaping?”
- “What do you think about vaping?”
Listening to their perspectives can help kids feel comfortable being honest.
what if I or another trusted adult in my child’s life vapes?
If you or another trusted adult in your child’s life vapes, it’s even more important to have the conversation.
- Explain that nicotine affects young people differently because their brains are still developing.
- Talk about the laws around vaping and age restrictions, similar to alcohol and tobacco.
- Be honest and open while reinforcing healthy choices for children and teens. Even when adults try to hide vaping, youth are often more aware than parents realize.
The goal is not to scare or shame kids or teens. It’s to create open communication so they feel informed, supported, and comfortable coming to you with questions.
