Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Single Edition Media on behalf of the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment.
In regards to marijuana, the world has changed here in Colorado. I live just outside of Boulder, Colorado and in my small town we now have as many retail pot shops as we do grocery stores. Retail marijuana stores are popping up all over the state of Colorado, it is no longer a hidden substance.
Ever since retail marijuana became legal in the state of Colorado, I have wondered the effects it might have on our community and on our future generations. I have thought about this as often as I see a marijuana advertisement or pot shop sign I see… which in Colorado, is often!
Children are growing up in a different world than I grew up in, and it is important to adapt to make the world that they grow up in both safe and comfortable. The topic of retail marijuana is a critical topic to bring up with your children.
When to Talk to Your Child About Marijuana
Surprisingly, the holidays are a great time to have an open and honest conversation with your child about retail marijuana. The holidays bring us closer together and allow extra time to be spent with our family. It is also a time where children are out of school and might be more open to the conversation while they are not busy with the pressures of schoolwork.
Why it is Important to Talk with Your Child About Marijuana
Of course you want the best for your children and for them to make wise and healthy decisions. This is why you should consider telling your children your thoughts and give them your input on retail marijuana. You want to promote responsibility and make sure your children and teenagers understand the expectations and concerns you have for them. The more they know about the health effects, laws and your personal expectations, the more likely they will make an educated decision on retail marijuana when they’re presented with the opportunity to use it.
Tips For Talking to Your Child About Marijuana
- Educate yourself first!
- Be open and non-judgmental.
- Actually listen to what your child is asking.
- Be positive and helpful.
- Don’t lie. Teenagers are smart!
Underage retail marijuana use can be very concerning for a parent. Thinking about the conversation you’ll have with your kids about marijuana can be overwhelming to say the least. Luckily, there are many good resources to help you with this potentially difficult and tricky conversation.
The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment has an excellent resource on the “Good To Know” website. It has infographics, resources, tips, and more. It was created especially for parents in Colorado to start talking to their kids about retail marijuana use. It is a wonderful starting point to help you navigate the marijuana conversation with your children.
Find Help: Talking to Your Kids About Marijuana
You’ll find tips, resources and conversation starters on Colorado’s Good To Know website.
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