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Drug education can help children understand cannabis
Marijuana laws in Nebraska are strict as medical and recreational cannabis for adults is fully illegal. While some 4/20 celebrations do occur in the state, most cannabis users and aficionados travel to cannabis-friendly states.
Even in states where cannabis is fully illegal, children, teens, and young adults are influenced, whether through social media, pop culture, or adults in their lives using cannabis. Children and teens, especially, can have questions during 4/20 Day, and effective drug education can help them understand cannabis and the risks of using marijuana at a young age.
According to a Youth Risk Behavior Survey in Nebraska, one in four high schoolers reported ever using marijuana, and 5.3% tried it before the age of 13. It was estimated that 13.4% of high school students in the state reported currently using marijuana. Youth substance use data in the state has also shown that lifetime marijuana use remains high among grade 10 and 12 students.
Effective drug education can have a real impact. Parents and educators alike can positively impact the lives of their children and students.
For instance, keep the conversations age-appropriate. Speaking with a five-year-old is much different than speaking with a teenager. Use language and examples a child or teen would understand. Teach them about the dangers and what to avoid, such as edibles.
Most importantly, put yourself in your kid's shoes. This can be especially important for teenagers as they face different social pressures and situations. Make a point of understanding what they are up against.
When speaking to them about cannabis, stay calm and relaxed, stay positive, don’t lecture, and be clear and concise about rules and boundaries without using scare tactics or threats.
However, it’s ok to set rules, guidelines, and expectations and create rules together as a family or class. Parents and educators can be clear about the consequences without using scare tactics or lecturing; clearly state what you expect regarding cannabis use.
Choose informal times to have conversations about cannabis, and do not make a big thing about it. Yet, continue talking to them as they age, and let them know you are always there for them.
Finally, speak to them about peer pressure and talk with them about having an exit plan when they are offered marijuana. Peer pressure is powerful among youth, and having a plan to avoid drug use helps children and students make better choices. Ultimately, it is about assisting them to make good choices as they age.
— Marcel Gemme is the founder of SUPE (https://tinyurl.com/2yxkym4o) and has been helping people struggling with substance use for over 20 years. His work focuses on a threefold approach: education, prevention, and rehabilitation.