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Letter to the Editor: 4/20 Day celebrations are commonplace across Minnesota. Cannabis is fully legal in the state for adults 21 and older and is taxed and regulated similarly to alcohol. Cannabis suppliers and users will celebrate the legalization, culture, and its products during 4/20, and rightfully so as consenting adults.
The intention of this editorial is not to lecture anyone about anything but rather highlight the positive impact parents and educators can have on children and teens with drug education concerning cannabis.
Ultimately, we should be helping young people understand the risks so that they can make good choices and responsible decisions with drugs and alcohol. Through social media alone, young people face significant peer pressure and influence.
Data has shown that nearly half of the people aged 12 and older in Minnesota reported having used cannabis at least once in their lives. Among Minnesota adults (age 21 and older), 9.6% percent reported using cannabis in the past 30 days, while 12.7% of Minnesota youth (age 12-20) reported using cannabis in the past 30 days. Even as other states legalized cannabis, Minnesota’s rate of cannabis use increased before it being legalized in 2023; later studies may show something different or not.
Drug education is still important during the month of April amid the 4/20 celebrations, and these conversations can happen at any time.
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.
Stay updated on information about cannabis, current laws in Minnesota, and the different products. The landscape is constantly changing, and products are evolving.
Put yourself in your kid’s shoes. This can be especially important for teenagers as they face different social pressures and situations. 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. It’s ok to set rules, guidelines, and expectations; 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.
Most importantly, 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.
Marcel Gemme, Founder of SUPE Clearwater, FL
