Most people are aware that second hand smoking is detrimental to those around the smoker. A report from the Surgeon General in 2006 indicated that there are 250 toxins in cigarette smoke. Among these are lead, arsenic and cyanide. This is especially important when considering the impact of third hand smoke on children. The smoke not inhaled bmy a smoker is breathed in as second hand smoke Smoky residue gets into clothing, curtains, carpets, furniture and the surfaces of objects in the room. Who are the ones getting this third hand smoke? Crawling babies and toddlers explore their world by hand and mouth. They touch toys and other objects covered with third hand smoke particles. Where do their hands go? Of course, they go into their mouth and the tainted dust particles are inhaled.

The brains of the very young are still forming and neural connections are being established. Lead is well known for its harmful effects on children and lower IQ scores. The child gets about 20 times more exposure than an adult due to the ratio of toxins to body weight. It is believed by researchers that cigarette smoke is a respiratory suppressant and is thought to be a cause of Sudden Death Syndrome in some infants.

Parents who are smokers have third hand smoke in their hair and clothing. When holding their child or cuddling with them, the child is breathing in smoking residue. It is widely known that children whose parents are smokers have many more ear and upper respiratory infections. Frequent ear infections are primary cause of hearing loss in young children. Parents need to be more vigilant about second and third hand smoke and its effect on their little ones.