TALKING TO YOUR CHILD ABOUT VAPING #VPCBLOG76

Conversation and connection can make all the difference

As a parent, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by vaping. The products change constantly, the statistics are alarming, and knowing what to say or whether to say anything at all can be difficult

The good news? You don’t need to be an expert to make a difference.

Research consistently shows that one of the biggest protective factors against vaping is having trusted adults who are willing to have open, honest conversations. It’s not about delivering the perfect speech, it’s about creating an environment where your child feels safe to ask questions, share their experiences and seek support.

Why are teenagers more likely to vape?

Adolescence is a unique stage of brain development. Teenagers are naturally wired to seek new experiences, take risks and prioritise social connection. Their brains release more dopamine in response to rewarding experiences than adults, making nicotine feel particularly reinforcing. At the same time, the parts of the brain responsible for judgement, decision-making and impulse control are still developing into the mid-20s.

Add in colourful packaging, sweet flavours and the misconception that vaping is “safer”, and it’s easy to see why many young people become curious.

Start with curiosity, not confrontation

One of the biggest mistakes adults make is leading with accusations or lectures. Young people are much more likely to engage when they feel heard rather than judged.

Instead of asking:

“Are you vaping?”

Try asking:

“What do you notice about vaping at school?”

“Do you think most people your age vape?”

“What have you heard about what’s actually in vapes?”

Open-ended questions encourage conversation and help you understand what your child already knows, thinks or has experienced.

Tailor the conversation to where they’re at

Not every young person needs the same message.

If they have no interest in vaping, celebrate that choice and ask what helps them say no.

If they’re curious, focus on facts rather than scare tactics and help them practice simple ways to decline if they’re offered a vape.

If they’ve experimented or are vaping regularly, approach the conversation with empathy. Ask what they enjoy about vaping, what situations lead them to use it and what support they might need. Shame and punishment rarely change behaviour, but understanding and practical support can.

Here is a helpful list of local Victorian resources you can engage with to help your young person quit.

Share facts, not fear

Young people are more likely to listen when information is factual, balanced and relevant.

Some important facts include:

• Most vapes in Australia contain nicotine, even when labels suggest otherwise.
• Nicotine is highly addictive and affects the developing brain.
• A single disposable vape can contain as much nicotine as an entire pack of cigarettes.
• Nicotine withdrawal can feel like anxiety, irritability, low mood or difficulty concentrating.

Rather than trying to frighten young people, focus on helping them understand how vaping affects their brain, body and future choices.

What to avoid

Conversations can quickly shut down if young people feel attacked.

Avoid searching their belongings, reading their messages or criticising their friends. These approaches often damage trust and reduce the likelihood they’ll come to you when they need help.

Instead, focus on listening, staying calm and keeping the conversation going over time.

Remember: it’s not one conversation

The goal isn’t to have one perfect discussion about vaping.

The goal is to become the trusted adult your child knows they can talk to, whether they’re curious, worried, or simply trying to make sense of what they’re seeing around them.

Every conversation builds trust. Every question creates an opportunity to learn. And every calm, supportive discussion helps young people make more informed choices.

At OurFutures Institute and the Victorian Parents Council, we believe parents and carers play a vital role in preventing youth vaping. By working together, with evidence-based information, open communication and practical support, we can help more young people make healthy choices for their future. 

Want to know more:

Watch OurFutures Institute – VapinGet in touch g 101 series 

Vic Health – Vaping conversation guide for parents

Australian Government – Escape the vape: a conversation guide for parents and carers

OurFutures Institute website: https://ourfuturesinstitute.org.au/

OurFutures Email address:   [email protected]