Smoking is not only bad for you, it’s bad for your family too

1. When you quit you lower your children’s risk of pneumonia, bronchitis and asthma attacks.
2. Your kids may get fewer colds and ear infections.
3. Your baby will have a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

You’ll be healthier and better able to enjoy being a parent

1. You’ll feel better, breathe easier and food will smell and taste better.
2. You’ll lower your risk of lung cancer, heart disease and emphysema. That means you’ll have a better chance of watching your kids grow up and being around to know your grandchildren.

Your teen will be less likely to smoke

1. Teens are twice as likely to start smoking if their parents smoke.
2. When you decide to quit, you show kids how important it is to take care of yourself and to make healthy choice
3. Even if you have a hard time quitting, you’ll be teaching your kids that it’s worth struggling for something that is really important.

You’ll have more money

1. A pack a day can cost more than a thousand dollars a year.
2. Think of what that could buy for your children or yourself.

Ask your family for support

1. Let them know that quitting may be hard and you will need their patience.
2. Tell them how much healthier you’ll be when you’re smoke free.
3. If another family member smokes, consider quitting together.

Make a plan for quitting

1. Pick a quit date that is the least stressful time for you and your family.
2. Taper off by smoking fewer cigarettes. It may be easier to gradually quit than all at once.
3. Join a quit-smoking group.
4. Consider using nicotine-replacement gum or a patch.
5. If you have a hard time, don’t give up. Most parents who quit smoking try several times before they finally succeed.
6. Talk to your health care professional about your options.