quick clicks

preteenagers today articles

preteenagers today q&a

teenagers today articles

teenagers today q&a

community & groups

research baby names

prepare a birth plan

content channels

ip channel rss feeds

read birth stories

read parenting stories

recommended books

e-newsletters

safety recalls

ip diaries

ip store

mom of the month

dad of the month

editor's letter

letters to the editor

Expert Q&A

	By David L. Fay, M.D. Family Physician Associate Director, Waukesha Family Practice Residency Program

How harmful is trying a cigarette for the first time at ages 9 to 12? What should I do if my child has been experimenting on a regular basis?

Trying a cigarette is not a problem; continuing to smoke is the problem. This age group is the time when it is most effective for parents to begin to speak with their children about all forms of substance abuse, including tobacco. Discuss what they thought about having tried a cigarette, why they tried it and what their future plans might entail. Talk about the benefits (yes, there are some!), such as removal of peer pressure, relief of anxiety, and then talk about the risks (which obviously outweigh any benefits).

Remember to emphasize risks that are important to their age group – stained teeth, bad breath, early wrinkling of skin. Children of this age won't relate to lung disease or heart attacks. Talking openly – and without judgment – will also make your children more likely to come ask you about other important times in their lives. When you finish, schedule a time to talk about sex, alcohol, drugs..."

View more Q&A by this Expert