Every morning, I observe a father escorting his 8-year-old son to school. A common sight, yet what stands out is that he’s often smoking while holding his child’s hand just a block away from the elementary school. It’s a daily occurrence that makes me want to stop and ask him to wait until his son is safely at school before lighting up.
The child has no alternative; he must walk to school with an adult. Meanwhile, other children passing by in cars or buses witness this father casually puffing away, seemingly oblivious to the impact of his actions on those around him.
Let’s be clear: smoking doesn’t define you as a bad person or a negligent parent. Many individuals find it hard to quit, and it is their personal choice. However, smoking around children—whether yours or others—is simply irresponsible.
Imagine enjoying a drink at the end of a long day. Would you think to share a sip with your child? No. Or consider indulging in cannabis gummies; would you offer them to neighborhood kids? Absolutely not. Such actions would be deemed dangerous and reckless. The same principle applies to smoking near others, especially children. Second-hand smoke poses serious health risks, while third-hand smoke—the toxic residue that lingers on surfaces and clothing—can also be harmful.
You would think that common sense would dictate avoiding smoking in public spaces, particularly in areas frequented by children. Yet, some individuals seem unaware of this basic courtesy.
In addition to health concerns, a study from The Toronto Star highlights another issue: when children see adults smoking, it normalizes the behavior. We can educate our kids about the dangers of smoking, but witnessing it firsthand can undermine those lessons.
While it’s your prerogative to smoke, it’s equally important to be mindful of your surroundings. Designated smoking areas exist for a reason; use them. I’ve noticed such spaces behind grocery stores, at car dealerships, and restaurants. If you need to smoke, please go to an area with minimal foot traffic—or better yet, step into your car (but not with kids inside).
Ultimately, it’s your choice, but don’t impose the consequences of your actions on others, especially vulnerable children. We aim to nurture informed kids who understand the risks associated with smoking while shielding their developing bodies from its harmful effects. So, yes, if you choose to smoke near us, don’t be surprised if a concerned parent asks you to move along.
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Summary
Smoking around children is not only inconsiderate but poses serious health risks. While it’s a personal choice, parents should be mindful of their surroundings and avoid normalizing this behavior for children. Using designated smoking areas and being aware of the effects of second-hand and third-hand smoke can help create a healthier environment for everyone.