Sometimes the most difficult part of any discussion
about risky behaviors with your child is deciding how to
bring it up. Here are a few ideas to help you get
started:
Seeing a television public service announcement about not smoking provides an opportunity to talk about challenges your child may be facing, such as how to say no when a friend offers a cigarette.
Noticing someone smoking provides an opportunity
to express your views about not smoking and to
ask your child what he or she thinks.
Reading together about statistics on youth
smoking or drunk driving accidents can help you
start talking about risky behaviors and their
consequences.
Driving by a billboard that highlights the dangers
of smoking can lead to a discussion about the
health risks associated with smoking cigarettes.
Using news of reported risky behavior by a
celebrity can help start a discussion about taking a
stand and setting limits.
Asking your child if any of his or her friends smoke
presents an opportunity to ask your child's feelings
about smoking and to let him or her know that you
disapprove of it.
You may also want to be prepared for those
"unexpected" times your child wants to talk. It's
important to be ready when they reach out.
