In today’s world, open conversations about difficult topics are more important than ever. Cannabis, once stigmatized and demonized, has undergone a transformation in public perception. With increasing legalization across the U.S. and beyond, the plant is now widely available for both medical and recreational use. But as its presence grows in society, so does the question for parents: Should you talk to your kids about cannabis?
The short answer—yes. But how you approach it matters.
Why Talking About Cannabis Is Important
Ignoring a topic doesn’t make it go away. In fact, avoiding conversations about cannabis can leave children to gather information from unreliable sources such as friends, social media, or entertainment. With misinformation so easily accessible, ensuring that children have a well-rounded understanding of cannabis is essential.
Children today are exposed to cannabis in ways previous generations never were. Dispensaries are as common as liquor stores in some states, and products are marketed in sleek, consumer-friendly packaging. CBD, a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, is even found in wellness products at major retailers. The normalization of cannabis means that kids will inevitably have questions, and as a parent, you have the opportunity to provide them with facts rather than fear or confusion.
When Should You Start the Conversation?
The right time to talk about cannabis depends on the child’s age and maturity level. For younger children, simple conversations about safety—similar to how you would discuss household chemicals or prescription medication—are appropriate. For example, you might explain that some substances are only meant for adults and can be harmful if used improperly.
For pre-teens and teenagers, a more nuanced discussion is necessary. At this age, children are more likely to encounter cannabis or hear about it in school. This is the time to talk about the effects of THC, responsible decision-making, and the difference between medical and recreational use. The key is to create an open dialogue rather than a lecture.
The Science Behind Cannabis and Brain Development
One of the most critical reasons parents hesitate to discuss cannabis is the concern over its effects on the developing brain. Studies show that regular cannabis use in adolescents may impact memory, attention, and cognitive function, particularly because the brain is still maturing into the mid-20s. While adults may use cannabis responsibly, the risks for young users are different.
Explaining the science behind cannabis can help children understand why its use should be approached with caution. Instead of using scare tactics, presenting factual information about potential risks can foster a more informed perspective.
Medical vs. Recreational Use: Understanding the Difference
With medical cannabis legal in most states and recreational cannabis legal in many, it’s important for kids to understand the distinction. If someone in the household uses medical cannabis, explaining its role in health and wellness is key. Just as children understand that some people take prescription medications while others do not, they can grasp the idea that cannabis has different applications.
Recreational use, on the other hand, should be discussed in the same way as alcohol or tobacco. If you choose to consume, modeling responsible behavior and setting clear expectations can help establish healthy attitudes toward substance use.
Encouraging Open Communication
The biggest mistake parents can make is turning the cannabis conversation into a one-time lecture. Kids are more likely to engage in meaningful discussions when they feel heard rather than scolded. Asking open-ended questions such as, “What have you heard about cannabis?” or “Do any of your friends talk about it?” allows them to share their thoughts without fear of judgment.
Additionally, letting children know they can always come to you with questions builds trust. This approach can prevent them from seeking answers elsewhere, where the information might not be accurate or safe.
Final Thoughts
Whether or not you support cannabis use, it’s impossible to ignore its growing presence in society. Pretending it doesn’t exist won’t shield children from it, but open, honest discussions can equip them with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.
At the end of the day, the conversation about cannabis should be framed around responsibility, safety, and personal values—just like discussions about alcohol, prescription drugs, or any other adult choices. By fostering a healthy and open dialogue, parents can guide their children to make choices that align with their well-being and future.