When to Talk about Inhalant Abuse

How serious of a problem is inhalant abuse? When should parents tell their children about the dangers of this abuse? -- Concerned
Answer: The good news is that inhalant abuse is down. The bad news is that this abuse may start as early as first grade. According to the National Inhalant Prevention Coalition, by the time a student reaches the eighth grade, one in five will have used inhalants.
Children as young as 4 years old need to know the dangers of inhalants, as they are everywhere -- in items such as glue, felt-tip markers, spray paint, air freshener and cooking spray. Of course, what parents need to say should be age-
appropriate. And you don't want give too much information too soon nor go into how inhalants are used. You can find good suggestions on what to tell your children at www.inhalants.org/teacher.htm.