Communities for Positive Youth Development (CPYD) Coalition
Working together for a healthy, safe, and substance-free community.

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🚭 Parent & Educator Alert:

Understanding Vaping

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What to Know

Vaping means inhaling aerosol from an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette). These devices heat a liquid (called e-juice) that contains nicotine, flavorings, and chemicals—not harmless water vapor.

E-cigarettes can look like pens or USB drives. Popular brands include JUUL, Puff Bar, and Elf Bar. Flavors such as fruit and candy attract young users.​​

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Why It Matters

• The aerosol contains nicotine, heavy metals, and toxins linked to lung and heart disease.

• Nicotine harms developing brains up to age 25, impacting memory and focus.

• Devices can be altered to vape marijuana or THC oils, increasing mental health and learning risks.

• Secondhand vapor also exposes others to these harmful chemicals.

Warning Signs

• Sweet or fruity smells in clothes or rooms

• Frequent use of small tech-like devices

• Coughing, throat irritation, or shortness of breath

• Mood swings, irritability, or a sudden drop in grades

How to Talk With Youth

• Keep conversations calm and ongoing—not a one-time lecture.

• Ask what they know; listen before responding.

• Share honest health facts, not scare tactics.

• Help them practice saying “no” to peers.

• Model healthy stress relief like walking, music, or creativity instead of substances.

Support & Quit Resources

• Illinois Quitline: 1-866-QUIT-YES

• Parent Helpline (Partnership to End Addiction): 1-855-DRUGFREE

• CDC Tobacco Prevention: cdc.gov/tobacco

• Truth Initiative: truthinitiative.org

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Together, we can help our youth stay substance-free.

To learn more, volunteer for the coalition, or request a presentation
Contact: cpydcoalition1@gmail.com

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