Talk To Your Kids About Smoking

Working in the public education system, specifically in middle school, can be an eye-opener. At the tender age of 11 or 12, it becomes quite clear they are more sophisticated than we were at that age. In addition, some are prone to engage in behavior we would have thought unheard of at that age. Yet, among other things, it’s a fact that some of these 6th graders smoke. While hard to fathom, the question facing parents is: “How to you talk to your kids about smoking?”

While it is recommended that parents discuss smoking with their kids at age five or six, it is nonetheless hard to broach the subject. Certainly, if you are a parent who smokes, it will be harder to convince a child that it is unwise and dangerous for them to do so. After all, to them it may seem harmless. Moreover, children tend to mimic parents at an early age. So what do you say to these children? How do you convince them the very thing you want them to avoid is a habit they constantly witness on a daily basis? It is quite a conundrum.

If you do smoke, the first thing you need to do is quit. If you do not engage in this habit, you can sit your children down and explain to them the dangers of smoking. But it goes beyond just telling them, doesn’t it? As they mature, they will be immersed in a culture where peer pressure and acceptance become the catalyst which may override your efforts to keep them safe and out of harm’s way.

So what do you say? That smoking can kill; that it’s very habit forming; that it doesn’t matter what their friends do or say to provoke them, they should say no and walk away; that smoking is not a hip thing to do. Will they understand what you are trying to convey? Perhaps the answer is in repeatedly pointing out the dangers of smoking; that it is not a popular thing to do; point out people who smoke and make reference to how they look and smell.

While you cannot shield your child from all potential bad habits they will come across in their young lives, you can offer positive reinforcement on a daily basis by not engaging in any activity they may mimic, and being consistent in your efforts to dissuade them by any means you can. Books, videos and other tools can be used to teach children the hazards of smoking and other harmful toxins. Teach them to say no to their friends or peers. Tell them by saying no they are exhibiting strength of character, and how proud you are they have acted so grown up.

Are You Teaching Your Child About Internet Safety?

The one thing most parents worry about most these days is . Not only because of identify theft; but the identity of your child being stolen by some pedophile whose specific purpose is to attract young children. Teaching your child about internet safety is paramount.

Fortunately, most internet service providers afford you the opportunity to control your kids’ usage. You can check to see what sites they been to and monitor them as closely as possible. But in those cases when they are using a outside the home, the risks are more dangerous.

Teach your child about internet safety by discussing what can happen to them if they enter chat rooms or engage in any type of online activity that can be harmful. If they are old enough to understand, gently discuss the ways in which they can be fooled by untrustworthy people. Instruct them never to give out their name, telephone number or address to anyone. This applies to their password as well. Spelling out the worst case scenario will give them pause to think the next time they go online. This is vital to their safety. You cannot mince words when it comes to internet safety. You have to be very clear, concise; using an urgent tone at the same time.

Teach them about emails. Warn them not to open any email if they do not know who it’s from. Alert them to instant messages from people they don’t know. Ensure you check their computer habits on a daily basis. Leave no room for anyone to invade your child’s life. It is important to understand the number of pedophiles who go after children has become a pandemic. All you have to do is watch any of the news programs to see for yourself how easily your child can become a victim.

While computers may be a necessity today, whether at school or at home, they should be used cautiously, carefully, and with the utmost care. Some of these shareware programs invite hackers to invade your computer information. If you are not aware of how hackers and other unwanted criminals can access your system, it is incumbent upon you to research the data. Use every conceivable virus protection program you can. Before the computer is turned off, clear out the cache to all websites visited. This will prevent further usage of these websites and may deter your child from seeking them out.

Computers may be needed, but they can also be the catalyst which can harm your child in ways you’ve never imagined. Take some time right now and discuss internet security with your child: it could literally save their life.

INTERNET SAFETY Computer Monitoring Software

The Safe Side Internet Safety John Walsh Julie Clark

Internet Guide To Food Safety And Security by

Internet Safety (Watts Library), Josepha Sherman, Good

Does Your Teen Suffer From Depression

Today, more than ever, teens are faced with peer pressure, divorce, low self-esteem, and other life experiences which can impact their emotional well-being. Does your teen suffer from depression? Here are the signs to look for.

Does your teen have a tendency to sleep late on school days? Do you have trouble getting them out of bed to go to school? Are they not eating properly? Are they spending a great deal of time in their rooms with the music blasting? Is the music foreboding? Are there dark and disturbing posters hung in your teen’s room? Does your teen seem listless and moody? Has your teen become isolated from friends and family members? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, you may have a teen who is suffering from depression.

Most teenagers become moody: it’s a fact of life. But when the moodiness turns to depression, it is more serious and requires intervention. Talk to your child. Try to determine the cause. If your child is not yet ready to discuss the problem, let him or her know you are always there for them; that they can rely on you to listen without passing judgment. Give them time to form the words to express their feelings. Sometimes, the only way a teen can express their emotions is through anger. Be aware of this, and try to take the edge off by using comforting and safe words. Above all, don’t lecture the teen or issue an ultimatum. Don’t change the subject; their pain is real – acknowledge it.

One of the issues teens face is not living up to your standards. Assure them they are loved despite everything. Tell them there is nothing in this world that could change the way you feel about them. Allow them the room to open up to you; then when they do, ensure it is safe for them to say anything, reveal anything. Do not discuss how you feel. . This will just alienate the teen. It isn’t about you; it is about what your teen is going through.

When all else fails, and you are concerned your teen might take his depression a step further, a visit to a therapist or psychologist is necessary. It can be a scary time for you, but remember this depression is not about you. Don’t lay a guilt trip on your teen by saying, “What did I do wrong!” Be supportive, compassionate, understanding; most of all listen. Really listen.

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