As we enter the Term 2 holidays, I wanted to address an important issue that affects the wellbeing of many young individuals, vaping.  

I am reaching out to you with warmth and care because I believe that as parents, you play a crucial role in safeguarding your children’s health. Together, we can work towards preventing vaping and creating a healthier future for our children. 

Below are some practical steps and valuable resources that are available to support parents and families on this journey with their daughters.  

1. Educate Yourself

Knowledge is power.  

Take the time to understand the dangers and risks associated with vaping. Familiarise yourself with the various products and devices used for vaping, as well as the potential health consequences. By arming yourself with accurate information, you will be better equipped to have meaningful conversations with your teenagers. To understand more about what vaping is, and how it affects our health check out the top vaping related FAQs answered here by experts in the field. You can also do this free module to help you get more information on vaping.  

2. Initiate Open Dialogue

Communication is key.  

Initiate open and non-judgmental conversations with your teens about vaping. Create a safe space where they feel comfortable discussing their thoughts and experiences. Remember to listen actively, validate their feelings, and provide factual information to counter any misconceptions they may have. Here is a video on how to start the conversation and what to avoid when talking to teens about vaping.  

3. Set a Positive Example

Be a role model.  

Your actions speak louder than words. If you are a smoker or vape yourself, consider quitting or seeking healthier alternatives. By demonstrating a commitment to your own wellbeing, you send a powerful message to your children about the importance of making healthy choices.  

4. Establish Clear Expectations

Set clear boundaries. 

Discuss your expectations regarding vaping with your teenagers. Clearly communicate your concerns and explain why you believe it is important for them to avoid vaping. Encourage them to make informed decisions and resist peer pressure. Here’s a family agreement template you can download and use to set expectations with your teen at home.  

To support you further, visit www.blurredminds.com.au/parents to access:  

• Detailed information on the risks and dangers of vaping 
• Signs that your teen might be vaping 
• Tips for initiating conversations with your teenagers 
• Strategies for maintaining open lines of communication 
• Professional help and support available 

Remember, you are not alone on this journey. By joining together and sharing our knowledge and experiences, we can make a positive impact on the lives of our children.  

Thank you for your commitment to reducing youth vaping and promoting a healthier future. If you have any questions or need more support, please reach out.