How-to: Cannabis Dialogue with Teens

So you want to talk to your kid about cannabis but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

We’ve done our research, compiled the best information, and created this quick guide with the ins and outs of cannabis communication.

The highlights

What do the leading expert sources agree on? First, when approaching your teen about cannabis, choose the right time to talk. This conversation doesn’t need to be heavy or tense. Put your teen at ease with the environment and attitude of the discussion. Consider making the conversation spontaneous to avoid stressing your teen. Picking a calm time and place will help them talk comfortably, openly, and freely. 

Next, clarity, clarity, clarity. Establish clear (and consistent) rules about marijuana for your household. If your teen is confused by your household rules, they won’t be able to follow them. Decide where you stand, communicate those guidelines to your teen, and stick to it. 

When talking, know your stuff. There are cannabis resources all over the internet. We’ve spent time putting together the information you need (check out our guide to cannabis terminology here as a starting point), as have countless other groups. Don’t make excuses for being uninformed. The more inconsistencies there are in the facts you present, the less trust you’ll be able to build in your argument. Your teen will respect the time you’ve put into being knowledgeable about the topic. If you don’t have an answer, that’s okay – just be honest and figure it out together.

Finally, listen to your kid. If you’re going to have a talk like this, communication has to go both ways. Let them ask you questions. Give them space to explain their point of view without the threat of snap reactions. Just as your teen is learning and growing, so are you. Let this be a good experience for both of you and remember the importance of their point of view.

Find more resources: