The Hidden Dangers of Vaping: What Parents Need to Know
Dear Franklin Family,
We encourage you to share the content of this article with your child, especially those in 6th grade and above, to help them understand the dangers of vaping and make informed, healthy choices. This article provides important information on the risks of vaping, how to identify if your child may be using, and what steps you can take to prevent and address it.
Together, we can create a safer, healthier future for our students.
Vaping has quickly become one of the biggest threats to student health and well-being, with both nicotine and THC (the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana) posing serious risks to developing brains and bodies. What was once marketed as a “safer alternative” to smoking has led to severe addiction, mental health issues, and even life-threatening lung damage—all affecting students at younger and younger ages.
Why Is Vaping So Dangerous?
Many students underestimate the dangers of vaping, but the reality is alarming:
🚨 Nicotine Addiction – A single vape pod can contain as much nicotine as a pack of cigarettes, leading to fast addiction and withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and irritability.
🚨 Brain Development Risks – Nicotine and THC affect memory, concentration, and impulse control, making it harder for students to succeed academically.
🚨 Unknown Chemicals – Many vape products, especially unregulated THC vapes, contain dangerous toxins that can cause severe lung disease (known as EVALI) and permanent damage.
🚨 Mental Health Effects – Studies show that vaping is linked to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts in teens.
🚨 Easy to Hide – Vapes come in flavors that mask the harshness of nicotine and THC, and devices are often designed to look like USB drives or pens, making them harder for parents and teachers to detect.
Signs Your Child May Be Vaping
Parents must stay alert for signs that their child may be using vapes or hanging around peers who do. Look out for:
🔎 Unexplained mood swings or irritability
🔎 Increased thirst or dry mouth
🔎 Frequent headaches or dizziness
🔎 Sudden decline in academic performance
🔎 Using gum or mints excessively (to mask odor)
🔎 Possession of unfamiliar USB-like devices or small cartridges
How to Prevent and Address Vaping Use
Prevention starts at home! Here’s how you can protect your child from falling into the vaping trap:
✔ Have open conversations – Talk regularly about the dangers of vaping without judgment, so your child feels safe discussing peer pressure or curiosity.
✔ Set clear expectations – Let your child know that vaping is not acceptable and discuss the consequences of substance use.
✔ Monitor for warning signs – If you suspect use, at-home drug tests for nicotine and THC are available at most drugstores (like Walgreens) for an affordable price.
✔ Encourage healthy coping skills – Many students vape due to stress or social pressure. Help them find positive outlets like sports, hobbies, or relaxation techniques.
✔ Stay involved in their social life – Know who your child is spending time with and be aware of potential influences.
✔ Seek professional support – If your child is struggling with vaping addiction, reach out to your pediatrician or school counselor for guidance and resources.
We’re in This Together
At Franklin Academy, we are committed to keeping our students safe and ensuring they have the information and support needed to make healthy choices. If you have concerns or need help addressing vaping with your child, please do not hesitate to reach out. Together, we can fight this growing epidemic and protect our children’s future.
Let’s stay informed, alert, and proactive. Their health depends on it. 🚫💨
You can find more information at: https://www.browardschools.com/Page/55627
Sergio Delgado, your proud principal
