Responsible parents should ensure they are positive role models for their children. If parents smoke, then they cannot lay claim to the high moral ground, and cannot advise their children to desist from smoking. If parents smoke before their children, then the latter can get conditioned to the habit, even before friends or peers influence them.
Smoking is a Killer
Science reveals that smoking can kill. Therefore, parents should warn their children from getting addicted to this dreadful habit. However, many children are blissfully ignorant of the harmful effects smoking can have on their body.
Factors Leading to Adolescent Smoking
Adolescents start smoking due to peer pressure and the influence of role models who should know better than to think smoking looks cool.
- Young people may find it difficult to handle peer pressure. But, you cannot choose your children’s pals. Your children may start smoking to look cool or to fit into their peer group.
- Role models such as movie and rock stars are often seen smoking. Children ape them thinking it is cool to smoke. Thus, the influence of role models can make a child start smoking, just to look glamorous.
Communicate with your Children
It all comes down to proper communication. Talk to your children, build trust and friendship and encourage them to tell you what is going on in their world. By communicating in this manner, you can teach them the harmful effects of smoking. Besides, your children will get the will power and mental strength to say no to pushy peers and friends. Acknowledge the rebel in your children. Do not talk down to them, but give respect. In return, they will also respect you and your opinions.
Tune in to Your Children’s Minds
Many adolescents take up smoking to ward off sheer boredom. So, encourage your kids to involve themselves in outdoor activities and sports. This can enhance their fitness and self confidence, which can make them resist peer pressure with regards to smoking. By not smoking, your children can grow up healthy and fit. So, be frank and tell them that smoking can hinder their physical development and lead to poor health.
