Tobacco-Free Youth

Is your child ready to quit using tobacco?

HELP YOUR CHILD NOW

Teenagers who use tobacco don’t always look like pack-a-day cigarette smokers. Many of them do something called vaping. 

What is vaping?

Vaping is the inhaling of a vapor created by an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) or other vaping device. E-cigarettes are battery-powered smoking devices. They have cartridges filled with a liquid that usually has nicotine, flavorings, and chemicals.

How is vaping dangerous?

Nicotine is very addictive and can affect brain development. Because vaping is new, we don’t know how it affects the body over time. We do know that the nicotine in e-cigarettes:

  • Can slow brain development in kids and teens.
  • Can affect memory, concentration, learning, self-control, attention, and mood.
  • Can increase the risk of other types of addiction as adults.

Tobacco-Free Texting Apps

  • This is Quitting – This app targets teens and young adults who smoke and use e-cigarettes, including vapes. The app has quit stories from other young adults. It also has strategies and tips to stay tobacco-free and access to free expert counseling 24/7. Your child can join for free by texting DITCHVAPEto 88709
  • SmokefreeTXT for Teens – This program is from the National Institute of Health (NIH). It’s geared towards teens and young adults who smoke tobacco or vape. Your teen can join for free by texting QUITto 47848.
  • DipfreeTXT for Teens – This program is geared toward teens and young adults who use smokeless tobacco like snuff, dip or chew. Your child can join for free by texting SPIT to 222888
  • quitSTART – This app targets teen smokers and e-cigarette users. Teens can track their progress and earn badges for tobacco-free milestones and other wins. Your child can join for free by downloading the quitSTART app.

I’m a smoker. Could this keep my child from quitting?

Kids are quick to spot gaps between what their parents say and do. If you are a smoker or use tobacco, do these two things:

  1. Admit that you made a mistake by starting to smoke. Say that if you could have a do-over, you’d never start.
  2. It’s not simple. It may also take a few tries and the extra help of a program or support group. But, your kids will be encouraged as they see you overcome your addiction to tobacco.

If you would like help with quitting tobacco, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) for free resources and support.

Another program you can check out is BecomeAnEX. You have access to hands-on information about how nicotine addiction works and find ways to quit. You will also have access to a supportive online community.

Questions? Call Member Services at 1-800-488-0134 (TTY: 711). We are open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.