Smoking is dangerous/ hazardous to your health. We see this warning on every box of cigarettes sold anywhere in the world. Yet, we wonder why is it still being sold? Adults do not heed this warning and they set a bad example to our kids about smoking. There are many reasons why some older children want to try smoking. Underage smoking is a concern that the government is trying to address lately.

Parents’ Role in Underage Smoking

Underage smoking has actually increased from a plateau since the late eighties. This is in spite of the fact that the government has made many regulations and laws regarding the dangers of smoking. Underage smoking is actually one of the preventable causes of death among young adults and older children.

Parents need to understand their role in curbing underage smoking. There are many ways that a parent can help their child avoid underage smoking. One of these is to make your child aware that smoking is lethal to his health along with the health of his family. Talking about smoking and its dangers can open your child’s eyes.

Parents should not just talk the talk about smoking but they should also walk the walk. In other words, parents should set a good example to their children. When your child sees you smoking and you lecture him on the lethal side effects of underage smoking, do you think that this makes for a credible role model? Children look up to their parents and other adults so adults should show them what the adults want their kids to be.

It would also be a good idea to listen and talk to your child about everything, not just about underage smoking. Parents who have open communication lines with their children often get to notice if something is wrong even if the child does not talk about it.

There has been some talk that parents should treat their child as their friend but this is not entirely correct. Your child already has plenty of friends; he will need parents more than friends when it comes to guidance. Be open to talk to your child and be quick to diplomatically guide your child in the right direction.

Underage smoking is a real problem in our society. Many older children and young adults succumb to underage smoking and its hazards. Parents, please take time to talk and listen to your kids. Listen to what they have to say and guide them accordingly.