Tobacco-prevention techniques are taught to both teachers and students in schools with anti-tobacco programs. Junior high and middle school curriculum for anti-smoking campaigns is intensive, and the high school curriculum reinforces what the students have already learned, using such techniques as trivia contests as part of the reinforcement. Students are taught what it costs to smoke, including the effects, addictive properties and dangers of smoking, and strategies for refusing cigarettes from their peers.
Parents have the biggest influence over children, and when children have strong parents, they are less likely to try risky behaviors. Therefore, schools with anti-smoking campaigns partner with parents to guide children and teach them about the dangers of smoking. Parents are encouraged to openly express their views about smoking, and schools may also send home a DVD that explores all the aspects of tobacco use. Schools ask parents to get involved with the school, on the school board and in the classroom, to ensure the new anti-smoking policies are effective.
Tobacco displays in school anti-smoking campaigns include newspaper articles, photos and other announcements about tobacco, and they are used to illustrate the dangers and costs of smoking and tips to quit smoking. Schools may also partner with organizations, such as the American Cancer Society, to provide students with additional knowledge about how smoking affects the body. These organizations may provide guest speakers, show videos and distribute pamphlets about the effects of smoking.
Schools can get children involved in contests or organizations that promote smoke-free lifestyles, and create groups that go into the community to teach about the dangers of smoking. Students are encouraged to participate in art competitions to develop bumper stickers or posters for a tobacco-free life. Schools can issue challenges to students, parents and teachers to quit smoking and offer assistance to any person at the school who wishes to quit smoking. Some schools even refuse funding or support from tobacco industry companies.