The UK went smoke-free at the beginning of July and thousands of smokers began trying to kick the habit. The Supernanny Team has essential tips for how the whole family can support the quitter and survive the difficult process.

Turn your home into a smoke-free zone

Take a deep breath. Can you smell that?

It’s the sweet scent of fresh air, and from the 1st July it’s been filling up your local pub, station and workplace. As the UK adjusts to our smoke-free surrounds, it's expected that thousands of smokers will use the new ban to kick the habit. And if you’re a parent, there are compelling reasons to give up.

You’re probably well-aware of smoking’s effect on your own body, but the habit has a devastating affect on your family too. Breathing in second-hand smoke increases your family’s risk of lung cancer by 24% and heart disease by 25%.

Children of smokers are also at greater risk of developing asthma, meningitis and ‘glue ear’, and catching colds, coughs and bugs (Source: NHS). As if that wasn’t enough, US studies have shown that 12 year olds whose parents smoked are twice as likely to take up smoking between the ages of 13 and 21, than children who grow up in a smoke-free house (Source: University of Washington).

Unfortunately, we all know that giving up isn’t easy. You’ll probably suffer cravings and are likely to experience bouts of depression, irritability, restlessness and sleep disruption. Whether you’re the one trying to quit or you’re helping a partner, here are some tips to make it easier.

For the quitter:

• Explain your plans to the whole family and make sure children understand that Mum or Dad might be grumpier than usual for a few weeks. Try to apologise if your mood makes you snap at them – children will take things personally if they don’t understand why you’re grouchy.
• Calculate how much you spend on cigarettes and plan a reward for giving up. Go to a local amusement park or organise a holiday with the money you’ve saved.