The following tips are from a quit vaping campaign produced by Smokefree Sheffield, in collaboration with ASH and local authorities across Yorkshire and Humber.
- Find the right moment when you see someone vaping, walk past a vape shop or see advertisements.
- Ask questions what do they think about vaping? Do they know people who vape? Why do they think people vape?
- Listen to them learn from them, but also use your knowledge to help them understand the facts and that vapes are not harmless.
- Talk about your expectations explain your concerns and tell them why you don’t want them to vape or smoke and to make clear that although neither are recommended, smoking is the far greater risk.
- Let them know that you care about them explain that those who knowingly sell vapes to under 18s don’t care who they sell to, and they are just interested in making money.
- Talk about the different reasons why children may vape give examples such as wanting to fit in, curiosity, stress. Talk through effective ways to respond if they ever feel pressured to try it and practise responding together.
- If your child is vaping, try to understand why they are vaping by asking questions like “What do you enjoy about vaping?” Or “How does vaping make you feel?”. Understanding this might help you to understand their needs and discuss other ways to meet those needs.
