October is Child Health Month, and in 1999, the American Academy of Pediatrics’ focused on educating parents and children about huffing – the dangerous practice of inhaling fumes (aerosols, glues, paints, etc.) to become intoxicated.
In a nationwide survey of 10 to 17 year olds, about one quarter reported that their friends huff. Nearly 60% are 12 years of age or younger when they first become aware of friends’ huffing. But children don’t talk about this with parents.
Every parent should be informed about the current customs in this subtle and deadly practice.