Encourage Open Communication and Understanding
These conversation starters are designed to help parents initiate meaningful discussions with their teens about vaping, its risks, and how to make healthy choices. Approach these conversations with empathy, curiosity, and openness to create a safe environment for your child to share their thoughts and experiences.
1. Understanding What They Know
Start by finding out what your child already knows or thinks about vaping.
- “What have you heard about vaping from friends or at school?”
- “Do you know what vaping is and how it affects the body?”
- “Have you seen anyone vaping, or have your friends talked about it?”
- “Do you think vaping is common among teens? Why or why not?”
2. Exploring Their Perspectives
Encourage your teen to share their views and ask questions.
- “Why do you think some people your age choose to vape?”
- “Do you think vaping is different from smoking? In what ways?”
- “How do you feel about vaping? Does it seem safe, risky, or something else?”
- “If someone offered you a vape, how do you think you’d respond?”
3. Addressing Peer Pressure and Social Situations
Discussing peer pressure helps your teen think through situations they may encounter.
- “Have you ever felt pressured to try something because of friends or classmates?”
- “What would you say if someone encouraged you to vape?”
- “How do you feel about saying ‘no’ to things that make you uncomfortable?”
- “Let’s talk about ways to handle situations where friends are vaping. What are some things you could say?”
4. Sharing Facts About Health and Safety
Provide accurate information about the risks of vaping and listen to their reactions.
- “Did you know vaping can impact memory and concentration, especially in young people?”
- “Vaping products often contain nicotine, which can be highly addictive. What do you think about that?”
- “Some vapes contain harmful chemicals that can affect breathing. Have you learned about this in school?”
- “Do you know that many vaping devices are designed to be addictive, making it hard to quit once you start?”
5. Discussing Social Media and Marketing Influence
Help them understand how vaping is marketed to teens and discuss its impact.
- “Have you noticed any ads or social media posts about vaping? What do you think about them?”
- “Did you know vape companies use social media influencers to make vaping look appealing to teens?”
- “What kind of messages do you think vaping ads are trying to send to young people?”
- “Why do you think vape companies make flavors like fruit or candy? Who do you think they’re trying to appeal to?”
6. Offering Support and Guidance
Reassure your teen that you are there to help them make healthy choices and handle challenges.
- “I’m here to support you if you ever feel pressured to try vaping.”
- “If you have questions or feel curious about vaping, please feel comfortable talking to me about it.”
- “I’m proud of you for being open to this conversation. Let’s keep talking if you ever need advice or have concerns.”
- “We’re a team. If you face any challenges, like peer pressure, we can work together on ways to handle them.”
Tips for Parents
- Listen Actively: Allow your teen to express their views without interruption, showing that you respect their thoughts.
- Stay Curious, Not Judgmental: Approach each conversation as an opportunity to learn and understand, not to lecture.
- Be Patient: If they aren’t ready to talk immediately, let them know you’re available when they are.
- Keep the Dialogue Ongoing: Regular check-ins can help reinforce healthy choices and keep communication open.
Having open, supportive conversations about vaping helps teens feel informed, empowered, and prepared to make healthy decisions