Marijuana is legal for adults in Maine and is taxed and regulated similarly to alcohol. 4/20 celebrations are occurring throughout the state. Dispensaries, retailers, influencers, and aficionados of cannabis take part in the counterculture holiday. 

Cannabis and its many products have become mainstream, and many adults who use cannabis go and celebrate the day. But don’t worry; this editorial is not meant to lecture anyone about anything. 

We want to highlight how drug education can help young people and the positive impact parents and educators can have on the lives of their children and students when they have questions about drugs and alcohol.

Amid growing social media, influencers, and everything on the internet, kids and teens will have questions about cannabis, and drug education can help answer many of these questions. 

According to a survey conducted by the Maine Office of Cannabis Policy, they estimated between 25% and 30% of Maine residents had used cannabis in the past month. They also found that 50% of users used cannabis 26 or more days per month. The state's Division of Disease Prevention states since 2017, there has been a rise in cannabis use by youth and young adults. Since 2019, accidental ingestion by children (0-5) has increased. 

There is never a wrong time to speak about cannabis and the risks involved for children and teens. For example, 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. 

Most importantly, put yourself in your kid's shoes. This can be especially important for teenagers as they face different social pressures and situations at school or through social media. 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, but also ask questions and answer their questions.

Additionally, 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 helping them make good choices as they age. Educators and parents can positively impact the choices of children and students.

Marcel Gemme is the founder of SUPE and has been helping people struggling with substance use for over 20 years. His work focuses on a threefold approach: education, prevention, and rehabilitation.