Health Tip: Stop Teen Smokers Before They Start

(HealthDayNews) -- The temptation to start smoking cigarettes can be strongest during adolescence. So if you have pre-teens at home, now''s the time to steer them away from lighting up.

Here are some suggestions from St. Louis Children''s Hospital:

• Be a role model by not smoking.
• If you do smoke, discuss your struggle to quit with your kids.
• Make sure your kids know where you stand on smoking and give reasons for your opinions.
• Remind them of the costs.
• Many kids smoke to relieve stress or to help deal with awkward situations. Teach them other ways to handle pressure.

-- Felicity Stone