Talk to kids about pot

Four/20 has always been a large draw in Winnipeg, and since legalization across the country, the festivities have grown. Cannabis enthusiasts, everyday users, and cannabis retailers come together to celebrate.

The province has led the way in year-over-year cannabis sales. Stats Canada reported that recreational cannabis purchases climbed 23.7% in Manitoba, overtaking the national rate. Recreational cannabis sales nationwide amounted to $4.7 billion in 2022-23.

It's a growing market in the city and province, and cannabis use is mainstream, meaning there is a more significant influence.

Because of this, drug education can help Winnipeg youth on 4/20. Parents and educators play a critical role in introducing their kids to effective drug education and prevention. The goal is to help them make good choices and responsible decisions regarding cannabis as they age.

According to Manitoba

Health, youth cannabis use has remained unchanged for the past decade, with one in five youth between

Grades 7 and

12 using cannabis in the past year. One in five adults in

Manitoba has used cannabis in the past year and after legalization, an additional one in five adults are considering trying it.

Drug education has always proven beneficial for children and teens. Parents and educators can consider keeping the conversations about cannabis age-appropriate. Speaking with a 5-year-old is much different than speaking with a teen. Use language and examples a child or teen would understand.

Teach them about the risks and dangers of using cannabis at a young age and what to look out for, such as edibles and vaping products.

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 boundaries without using scare tactics or threats.

Yet, know 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 lecturing, but clearly state what is expected regarding cannabis use.

Moreover, 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, regardless of the situation they may find themselves in later in life.

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.

Gemme is the founder of SUPE and has

been helping people struggling with substance use for more than 20 years. His work focuses on a threefold approach: education, prevention, and rehabilitation