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Concrete ways to make a difference for your child, your family, your community
West Chester Teen Data
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WCASD 12th graders are 3x more likely to drive after marijuana use than alcohol.
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The amount of risk WCASD youth associate with marijuana use has dropped 11% in just four years.
Why We Care
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Legalization makes marijuana use seem less risky. However, it is still incredibly risky for teens.
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Addicitive THC in marijuana is sometimes confused with non-addictive CBD, also from the cannabis plant.
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Studies from CA and CO prove that social acceptance leads to increased use and increased related problem behaviors.
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Social acceptance reduces the chance that kids will seek help for themselves or others.
Strategies for Parents
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Include marijuana in your discussions about impaired driving.
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Distinguish between non-addictive CBD and addictive THC components in your discussions of marijuana.
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Remind teens that all addictive substances are harmful for developing brains.
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Model responsible behavior. Adult actions really do influence teen behavior.
Strategies for Parents of Elementary aged Children
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Eat. Eating right for brain health will plant the seed that our brains are as important as our bodies.
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Play. Games and puzzles exercise the brain.
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Talk. Say out loud how much you value brain health.
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Watch. Look for teachable moments in movies, TV, online and the community.
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Discuss your values on addictive substances and why they are dangerous for developing brains.
In the News
About Marijuana
“We are simply not prepared for the fallout of marijuana legalization.”
-Dr. Sharon Levy, MD, MPH, Boston Children's Hospital
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