Talk to Avoid Teenage Smoking

I find that I am always open to new parenting ideas.  As I have said before, I pride myself on keeping an open mind about pretty much everything.  Which is why I find myself picking up all the parenting magazines or looking at parenting websites.  I'm a practical mom in that I have no problem reading new age theories but only apply those that I know will apply best to our family.   I have two almost teenage nieces and I find myself reading about teenagers as well.  I pass what I find on to my sister and she makes the same decision about her family that I made about mine.  So, I found myself at a website about teens and smoking.  I found myself disappointed because all the website said was that teens smoke to fit in or relax and that communication such as asking your teen why they are smoking could start a dialog that will help your teen fight addiction.  The best place to stop teens from smoking is before they start.  Have a conversation about the consequences of smoking and know your kids.  Be an annoying parent, teens need to know you care and leave the understanding to the parents who don't have a connection with their kids...