Talking to Kids About Underage Cannabis Use

As kids head back to school, we thought it would be a good idea to share some ways parents can talk to their kids about responsible cannabis use, keeping in mind that underage use of cannabis is prohibited.

Your words make a difference when it comes to youth and cannabis. Young people who have an adult they can talk to are less likely to use cannabis, so follow these tips and start the conversation now.

Set rules

Make your rules about cannabis clear and stick to them. By letting your child know what will happen if they don't follow the rules, they'll be more inclined to make responsible decisions. Youth with clear family rules about alcohol and drug use are less likely to use cannabis underage than those without clear rules.

Be a good listener

Make sure you're not talking over or down to your child. When you allow youth to be heard, they're more likely to hear what you have to say.

Focus on the good

Encourage young people to make decisions that help them achieve their goals, and explain how cannabis can get in the way of those goals.

Tell them your opinions

Even if you use cannabis, tell youth how you feel about underage use. If you're open about it, be clear about why you use it and why you think they shouldn't yet. Youth who know you're against underage use are less likely to use it.

Keep the conversation going

The first talk should not be the only talk. Their friends, interests, and activities are changing all the time, so it's important to communicate often about how cannabis can impact their life.