Peer pressure can be a huge influence on teens, and may be the one thing that finally leads them to smoking or drug use as a young adult. Sometimes saying no to one of your peers can be the hardest thing a teenager can face. It just might seem easier to take the cigarette than refuse it.
Of course as a parent, you are going to be a huge influence on your child. Begin teaching your child the dangers of smoking and drugs early in life. Get them involved in sports, and be sure they are not idle for long periods of time. Religion can also provide them with a strong background in what is right and wrong. Get involved with the community through volunteering and have them participate. Then, give your child some ammunition for when the time finally comes – when one of their friends offers them a cigarette – or worse, drugs. Offer your child several quick answers:
Ways to Say No to Cigarettes and Drugs:
“No Thanks!” It can be as easy as that. If this is a true friend, hearing, “No” should be all they need.
“No man, I have a game this weekend,” changes their excuse from “chicken” to “cool.”
Have your child tell the person that you give them a random drug test every month, and if it tests positive, they lose the car or other privileges. If it is smoking, have your child tell the person that you have the nose of a bloodhound and would smell it a mile away. That puts the blame on you and takes the pressure off of them.
Raise your children to stand up for what they believe. Tell them to say, “No, I don’t smoke because it is expensive and bad for your health!” Then have them walk away. Period. They may hear about it for a while, but the person offering will most likely feel respect for your son or daughter, and may possibly think about quitting themselves.
