As we gear up for the new school year, it’s the perfect time to focus on children’s health and well-being, both at school and at home. Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC, tobaccofreelancastercounty.org) proudly supports Lancaster County schools, contributing educational materials, quit resources and technical assistance. They also want to help parents by offering practical tips to encourage tobacco-free lifestyles.

Tips for Parents:

Be a Role Model: If you use tobacco, consider quitting. This powerful action significantly lowers the chances of your child using tobacco.

Foster Open Conversations: Engage in discussions about the health risks of tobacco, the perils of peer pressure and strategies for coping with stress.

Champion Healthy Routines: Make regular exercise and balanced eating a family norm.

Tap into Support Networks: Begin your journey to quit by contacting the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW. If your child uses tobacco, text “QUIT” to (202) 899-7550 for advice and support. Talk to your healthcare provider for additional resources.

Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed about youth tobacco trends for relevant, informed conversations. For more information, visit TobaccoFreeLancasterCounty.org.

Funding for Tobacco Free Lancaster County is provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement.

For more information about Tobacco Free Lancaster County, go to tobaccofreelancastercounty.org.