Watch the video: Let's Talk About Vaping
In Simcoe Muskoka, vaping is the most common way youth are exposed to nicotine. Although youth smoking is at an all-time low, vaping rates among students in grades 10 to 12 remain very high.
We’re seeing the impacts, with youth regularly vaping, getting these products from friends, and often not realizing how addictive nicotine can be.
Parents and caregivers have an important role to play in preventing nicotine addiction and supporting young people who want to quit.
A New Generation Hooked on Nicotine
Local educators and health partners have shared concerns that vaping is hooking young people on nicotine, often without them realizing it.
Vapour products:
- Usually contain high levels of nicotine
- Are marketed in youth-friendly flavours and designs
- Are easy to hide, making them harder for parents and teachers to detect
The brain keeps developing until about age 25. This means teens are at a higher risk of getting addicted to nicotine.
Teens who vape nicotine:
- Are 3 to 4 times more likely to start smoking cigarettes
- May have more anxiety, mood swings, and mental health conditions like depression
Same Tactics, Different Product
The tobacco industry has rebranded, but their strategy hasn’t changed.
- Youth are drawn to colourful, flavoured vapes sold at local convenience and vape shops.
- Social media and influencers fuel curiosity and normalize use.
- Many youth don’t realize that many vape brands are produced and owned by large tobacco companies.
Even with regulations in place, underage access continues—often through older siblings, friends, or social sharing.
How Can Parents and Caring Adults Help?
Young people say parents and caregivers are their biggest influence -- even if it doesn’t always feel like it.
Here’s how to help:
- Start conversations early and often
- Learn about the types of devices and trends youth are seeing in Simcoe Muskoka
- Be open, listen without judgment, and focus on support—not discipline
You don’t need to have all the answers—just showing that you care makes a big difference.
Visit NotAnExperiment.ca for information, conversation tips, and videos for parents.
Support for Youth Who Want to Quit
If your child wants to cut back or quit, they’re not alone—and there are tools made just for them.
Local and Youth-Friendly Tools:
- NotAnExperiment.ca – Simcoe Muskoka's go-to youth vaping education and support hub
- Quash – A free app and website that helps youth quit in their own way
- Youth-VAST – A youth-focused program offering support, education, and tools to prevent and address substance use and tech dependence.
