Cannabis is a familiar age-old drug that has been used both medicinally and recreationally for centuries. Today, due to widespread legalization and misinformation, its popularity is rising, especially among kids and teens.
But today’s cannabis isn’t the same as previous generations grew up with. Extremely high potency, new variations of edibles and vapes and increased normalization of its use have made marijuana more culturally acceptable than ever before. For parents, this means it’s time to rethink how we talk to our children about it. Here are some practical tips to help you get started.
Get Up to Speed
Before diving into a conversation, it’s important for parents to understand today’s world of marijuana because it’s vastly different than it was decades ago. You don’t have to be an expert, but having a foundational knowledge about how cannabis is produced and consumed today will show kids you’re in touch and make them more likely to have an honest dialogue with you.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration publish the latest statistics and offer other useful online resources that outline today’s most important trends.
Wait for the Right Moment
Once you’ve done your research, the hardest part comes next—waiting. There’s no perfect script for these conversations, but timing matters. The best opportunities often come up naturally when kids are already curious, so it’s key to be on the lookout for those chances. Maybe they heard something at school, saw it online or ask you about a funny smell. Younger kids might ask more direct questions like what someone is smoking. Older kids may mention classmates using edibles or vapes. These moments are openings, and they’re often the most effective times to begin a calm, judgment-free conversation. By sticking to clear, honest information, you’re helping your child make sense of what they’re seeing.
Keep It Informational and Age-Appropriate
When an opportunity arises, it’s important to keep your tone neutral and message informational. Focus on sharing facts, not fear. While it’s encouraged to set household expectations, the goal isn’t to lecture or scare your child. Instead, offer honest, age-appropriate information that they can process and use to make better decisions later on.
Start by asking open-ended questions to get a sense of what they’ve already heard or believe: Have you ever heard anyone talk about marijuana at school? What do you think it is? What have you seen online? This gives you valuable insight into what they already know (or what they think they know) and will help you tailor the conversation appropriately.
A common misconception is that marijuana is safe simply because it’s “natural” or used as medicine in certain cases. However, medical cannabis (e.g. products historically prescribed to increase appetite or treat glaucoma) is not the same as what’s sold in dispensaries or shared among peers. Unlike other prescription medications, most products today lack standardized dosing, a specific treatment protocol, and long-term safety data.
Additionally, today’s cannabis is far more potent. Just a few decades ago, THC levels were around 2% to 4%. Now, we see products with 20% to 25% with some more concentrated forms reaching up to 99%. That means stronger, longer-lasting effects, especially for developing brains.
This is more concerning for adolescents since the brain’s frontal lobe, which is responsible for decision-making and impulse control, isn’t fully developed until a person has reached their mid-20s. Introducing high levels of THC during this time can disrupt that progression, leading to problems with memory, attention and emotional regulation. It also may increase anxiety, depression, and in some more extreme cases, psychosis.
Know the Signs and When To Step In
Even with open communication, kids may still experiment. So, it helps to know the warning signs to look for. Changes don’t always mean substance use, but they can be a cue that something’s going on, and it’s a reason to start asking questions.
Start by paying attention to shifts in behavior or routine. Maybe your child seems more withdrawn, irritable or forgetful. Maybe their schoolwork is slipping, they’re sleeping more than usual or they’ve stopped participating in activities they used to enjoy.
These signs could point to substance use or be indicators of stress, anxiety or feeling overwhelmed. Either way, it’s good to check in with your child and ask questions. Let them know what you’ve noticed, while focusing on building a connection, and give them space to share.
If the changes persist or you’re worried about your child’s well-being, consider reaching out to a pediatrician, counselor or mental health professional who can help you navigate next steps. Cannabis Use Disorder can and does occur, especially with teens. About 30% of those who use marijuana may develop some form of marijuana use disorder, according to the CDC, and the risk increases when use begins in adolescence.
Parenting in today’s cannabis culture can feel overwhelming, but you don’t need all the answers. Just start the conversation. It’s more important for you to show up with support, compassion and clarity. The earlier and more often you talk to your child about these things, the more likely they will come to you when they need your help, guidance and support. And that’s the real goal anyway.
Dr. J. Gregory Hobelmann, M.P.H. is the co-CEO and president of Ashley Addiction Treatment, an organization that offers addiction treatment services, including family services.
The post A Parent’s Guide to Talking to Your Kids About Cannabis appeared first on Chesapeake Family.
