What are the effects of secondhand smoke to children's behavior?

Have you ever pondered the question, “Does my smoking have any effects on my child?”  It is important to get the assisting to get the work out on what smoking can do to the unborn and child once into the world.  Check out the article titled “Secondhand Smoke Tied to Kids’ Behavior Problem” at http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/07/14/secondhand-smoke-tied-to-kids-behaviors-problems/.  The article references six percent of children who live will a smoker are likely to have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) than peers of non-smokers.  Some of the behaviors a child who has been diagnosed as ADHD exhibit are

1.  Short attention span;

2.  Impulse control; and

3.  Hyperactivity (although this may not be present)

Remember there is not specific test for ADHD.  However, diagnosis is made by a team that includes teachers, family members, developmental and neurodevelopmental pediatricians, child psychiatrists, and/or a child psychologist.  This video clip “Learning Issues Linked to Secondhand Smoke” http://videofoxnews.com/v/1062091093001/learning-issues-linked-to-secondhand-smoke/ gives a more in-depth look at the effects of secondhand smoke.

Treatment for ADHD might include behavioral, educational, and psychological therapy and in some instances, pharmacological intervention.  Listed below are potential teaching strategies that will support children with ADHD

1 Promote self-regulation skills through written and picture schedules and verbal feedback

2.  Reinforce positive behaviors through verbal feedback.

3.  Provide activities that capitalize on child’s strengths.

4.  Be consistent.

It is too important to think and re-think is smoking more important than your child’s overall well-being.  Please start taking these steps to support your child and lessen the potential of major health issues.

1 If you smoke, stop now.  Consult your physical for help, if needed.  There are many new pharmaceutical products available to help you quit.

2.  If you have a household member who smoke, help them stop.  If it is not possible to stop their smoking, do not allow them to smoke in your home or near your children.

3.  Do not smoke or allow smoking in your care.

Please take that cigarette and speak to it “My child is more important than you.”