Start with something neutral.
Bring up vaping in a way that does not immediately feel personal. You might mention a vape store you pass, a news story, or something you noticed online.
Resources for Parents
Hey Parents: You Can Help
While it may not always seem like it, your opinion is very important to your kids. Helping your teen avoid or quit nicotine use starts with being available.
How to Talk About It
Talking about vaping or nicotine can feel awkward, especially if you are worried your teen may shut down. You do not have to have one perfect conversation. Small, calm, everyday moments can help you build trust, understand what your child is hearing, and share what you know without making them feel attacked. Here are some tips:
Ask what they think.
Open-ended questions can lead to better conversations than yes-or-no questions. Try asking, “What do you think about vaping?” or “What are people at school saying about nicotine?”
Keep the conversation going.
You may not say everything you want to say in one talk. Focus on keeping the door open so your teen knows they can talk to you again.
Stay calm.
Anger, panic, or judgment can make teens shut down. Take a breath, listen first, and try to respond in a way that keeps the conversation open.
Listen before you lecture.
Let your teen explain what they know, what they have seen, and what pressures they may be facing. You will have a better chance of sharing your concerns if they feel heard.
Look for everyday openings.
You do not need to schedule a serious sit-down talk. Some of the best conversations may happen in the car, while watching TV, or after seeing something about vaping or nicotine.
Warning Signs of Nicotine Use
The sooner you know that your teen has started using nicotine, the sooner you can help prevent addiction. Here are few of the biggest warning signs:
New health issues like a chronic cough, shortness of breath, nosebleeds, or increased thirst.
Behavioral changes like being more irritable or impatient, showing less impulse control, or grades that suddenly drop.
Unusual, unrecognizable items around the house that can fit in your hand; some might resemble a pen or a USB drive.
Weird smells in rooms your child has just been in, likely sweet-smelling, that don’t have an obvious source.
Resources for Parents
Knowing the facts can help you feel more prepared when questions, concerns, or hard conversations come up. Browse our resources to understand what vaping and nicotine products look like, why they can be harmful, how to talk with your child, and where to find support if they need help quitting.