It is likely that if your children start vaping, they will hide it from you.

Vaping can be a harder to recognize than smoking since it has less of an odor than marijuana or tobacco.

Here are some telltale vape signs that a child has picked up the habit:

• Scent: There is a scent affiliated with the action.

Concentrates often are flavored like fruit or other strong odors.

• Clouds: Many vaporizers create a white cloud.

If you see a milky cloud, be suspicious.

• Residue on Surfaces: The aforementioned clouds can settle on surfaces, producing a noticeable layer of film– especially on glass.

Good places to look for this film are on car windows in case a child is vaping outside to be inconspicuous.

• Excessive Thirst: The concentrates in vaporizers are known to cause dry mouth and increase thirst.

If they are drinking unusual amounts of liquid this could be a sign they vape.

• A Decline in Health: Side effects include coughing and wheezing, especially in children with asthma.

Vaping can cause nose bleeds due to the drying effect of inhaling vapors.

• Agitation: Children abusing nicotine may seem increasingly agitated, energized or anxious.

• Device Accessories: Children hiding the fact that they vape may accidentally leave out the device’s charging accessories and batteries, or discard of concentrate containers and pods in personal wastebaskets.

• Disappearing Money: If you notice money disappearing or a child is asking for excessive amounts of money, this is a red flag.

You should discuss vaping dangers your children.

Critical tips for approaching a child who vapes:

• Stay calm. Freaking out children may only make matters worse. It can instill fear in them and make them distrust you to help them kick the habit.

It could encourage them to vape to spite you or feel an adrenaline rush from breaking rules.

Instead, come up with a plan to address the situation without escalating it.

• If you suspect your child is vaping, give them reliable information.

Getting educated about the pitfalls of vaping can help you formulate strong arguments as to why your child should quit.

• Set an example.

It’s harder to keep children from vaping if you’re doing it, too.

• Time your approach.

If you ambush children when they come home from school or if they are already in a bad mood, they may become angry and a fight could occur.

Choose a time when they are in a good mood and open to accepting criticism or being challenged.

If you don’t feel that accusing a child of vaping is a good idea, there are ways to address the issue with the child subtly. For example, wait until they see someone else vaping in public when they are with you.

Bringing up a research article is a good way to enlighten the dangers of vaping to a child without accusing them of anything and causing adverse reactions.

As a parent, you are the only one responsible to keep your kids from vaping.

It is essential for smoking and vaping parents to keep their products away from their children so as not to encourage a detrimental habit.

Christina Matthews is a national health journalist.