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Parents Need to Know

New School Year, New Opportunities to Connect & Protect!

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As backpacks are packed, schedules fill up, and classrooms welcome students back, the back-to-school season offers a valuable opportunity for parents & caregivers to reconnect with their kids & teens, establish healthy routines, and have meaningful conversations that can help protect them from the risks of nicotine & vaping (as well as other drugs). 😉

Connection is the Best Prevention

Our kids & teens face new experiences, friendships, and pressures every school year. While as parents we can’t control every situation our child encounters, what we can do is create a strong foundation through consistent connection.

 

Simple moments—sharing breakfast, driving to school, attending activities, or asking about their day—can help our kids feel supported and understood. When kids know they have trusted adults who listen without judgment, they are more likely to come to parents with questions or concerns.

 

Strong relationships are one of the most effective protective factors against risky behaviors, including nicotine use.

Why Talk about Nicotine & Vaping?

Youth are often exposed to messages that make vaping seem harmless or trendy. The reality is different.

 

Most all vapes contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance that can harm the developing teen brain. And since our brains aren’t done developing until about age 25, nicotine can negatively impact attention, learning, memory, and mood. These vaping products have also been proven to contain other harmful substances like formaldehyde, nickel, tin, and lead.

 

Even if your child has never tried nicotine or vaping, conversations can help them recognize misleading information and prepare them to handle peer pressure.

Starting the Conversation Doesn't Have to Be Difficult

You don’t need  to have one long, serious discussion. In fact, shorter conversations over time are often more effective. Listen carefully to your child’s responses. Avoid lectures, and instead focus on understanding their perspective while sharing factual, age-appropriate information.

Try asking open-ended questions such as:

  • “What have you heard about nicotine at school?”
  • “Do kids your age ever talk about vaping?”
  • “What do you think makes vaping appealing to some teens?”
  • “How would you respond if someone offered you something with nicotine in it?”

Create a Home Environment that Encourages Healthy Choices

The beginning of the school year is also a great time to establish family expectations. Consider discussing your family’s values around health and making positive decisions. Let your child know they can always come to you if they feel pressured or make a mistake.

You can also:

  • Spend regular one-on-one time together
  • Stay involved in school and extracurricular activities
  • Encourage healthy friendships
  • Celebrate accomplishments, both big and small
  • Model healthy ways to manage stress

These everyday actions help build resilience and confidence.

Every Conversation Matters

No parent has all the answers, and no single conversation guarantees a particular outcome. What matters most is creating an environment where communication and support are ongoing and your child feels safe talking with you.

 

This school year, make connection part of your family’s back-to-school routine! A few extra minutes spent listening, encouraging, and talking openly can make a lasting difference in your child’s health and well-being.

 

As the new school year begins, remember that your relationship with your child is one of the most powerful tools you have! By staying connected and starting conversations early about nicotine and vaping, you can help them build the confidence and knowledge they need to make healthy choices now and in the future.

- Parent Up KC Staff

More to Check Out:

  • Learn more and find free tools and resources on our Nicotine page 
  • Check out our Prevent Use page to learn more about what parents can do to prevent underage drinking, marijuana use, and more
  • Read more Parent Up Insights

9 Ways to Root Your Family in Resilience

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As parents or caregivers, we know you want the best for your kids and hope that they get to stay in their carefree kid phase for as long as possible. The reality, though, is that kids DO face challenges. As parents and caregivers, you play a crucial role in helping your kids develop the resilience to overcome those challenges!

What is Resilience?

According to the American Psychological Association, resilience is the ability to adapt well to adversity, trauma, tragedy, or significant sources of stress. It is a tool to help manage uncomfortable feelings such as anxiety, uncertainty, or stress. Resilient kids are better equipped to handle the everyday challenges of life and cope with problems they encounter.

 

And the good news? Resilience can be built in kids (and adults!) of all ages, starting at home.

9 Ways Families Can Root Kids in Resilience Starting NOW!

1. Give yourself (and your kids) grace. It’s safe to say that we all make mistakes. When we acknowledge mistakes, and talk about what can be learned from them, it lets our kids know that when they make mistakes or face challenges, it will be okay!

2. Provide structure for kids. Predictability and routine help make kids feel safe and give them purpose. Every second of your day doesn’t need to be planned out, but consider including things like morning and nighttime routines, blocks of time for school work or unstructured play, or even time set aside to plan/talk about what’s going on that day. Just as important as having routine, however, is to model flexibility. Our kids will be watching to see how we respond when we’re running late, as unplanned things pop up, and when life’s other common disruptions happen.

3. Practice your own self-care. Drink water, take breaks, maintain a consistent sleep schedule, move your body, color, read, do things you enjoy most. Taking care of yourself is essential for taking care of kids, and will help you and your child(ren) be better equipped to handle stress or challenges.

4. Model positive coping skills. Put words to your positive coping actions, for example:  “Whew, I am feeling stressed.  I’m going to take a walk. Want to come too?” If you find yourself reacting to a situation with a negative coping skill, talk with your child about how you would handle that differently next time and what they would do if they were ever feeling that way.

5. Find intentional moments to connect. A report from Harvard University suggests that the key to resilience in youth is one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult. To build that connection, utilize meal times, car rides, or set aside time to just talk, play, and be together. Strengthening these relationships before challenging or stressful times can help ensure that your child has at least one person they feel comfortable talking to when those times do come.

6. Foster a sense of community. In addition to building connections with you, find places within your neighborhood, school, or larger community where your kids can feel connected to others. Whether that’s joining a club, volunteering, attending larger family gatherings, or even just hanging out with peers, building a community where they feel included can promote resilience in the long run.

7. Teach problem solving; don’t give answers. Sometimes it’s easier to give kids answers and solutions to small problems, because we’ve been there and done that! However, kids need that opportunity to build those skills and practice coming to a successful solution on their own. Try asking them questions that might lead them to a solution and build their confidence in solving small problems by themselves.

8. Move towards your goals. Model goal setting for yourself and help your child(ren) set reasonable goals. Setting goals can help kids feel a sense of control and as they accomplish those goals, building their confidence. In this process you’ll have the chance to help them identify stepping stones towards their goals, manage setbacks, evaluate their plans, and most importantly, celebrate successes big and small.

9. Choose an attitude of gratitude. Focusing on things you are grateful for is instant stress relief! With practice, focusing on gratitude can help build emotional resilience by encouraging us to focus on the positives instead of the negatives. You can model gratitude, especially in hard times, by saying things like “Even though this is hard, I’m glad we have each other for support.” 

Together, We Can Grow More Resilient Kids

Youth in our community have tremendous potential and we all benefit when this potential is realized! We are excited to partner with individuals, organizations, and various areas of our community to ensure that our actions support youth resilience and mental health. 

 

When we are intentional, and work together, we can ensure that ALL kids have the opportunity to thrive! Learn more about building resilience in your kids – and yourself – on our Roots of Resilience page! 

 

– Parent Up KC Staff

More Resources

What To Do if Other Adults Provide Alcohol to Minors

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Parent Up | What to do if...Other Adults Provide Alcohol to Minors

This month a local mom, Nancy B., describes a dilemma other parents and caregivers may relate to:

“There were two kids passed out on the couch.” This is what my son just told me. It was one of those special moments when my teenager actually opened up to me about his weekend and his friends. He was vulnerable, and I could tell that he was scared I was going to get really mad. I tried really hard to maintain composure, just listening, waiting for him to tell me more.

He explained that he didn’t drink but all his friends did, some of them drinking so much they passed out. I asked about the parents, and he shared that they were upstairs and they knew that everyone was drinking— it was the parents who bought the alcohol. Then he went quiet – he really didn’t want me to dislike those parents or his friends.

I consoled my son, thanking him for confiding in me and telling him I was so proud for not drinking. I told him that he can always call me if kids start drinking and I’d come get him ASAP. I gave him a hug.

Phew. My heart pounded as I left the conversation. On one hand, my kid was fine. He did the right thing and I’m so glad he was honest with me. On the other hand, I was furious that this parent provided alcohol to MY kid and his friends. Didn’t they know they were setting up kids for so many risks to their brain, body, and future?  

Alarming Stats

At Parent Up KC, we hear stories like this from parents too commonly. They’re angry that the providers of alcohol are other adults or parents who should know better.
The alarming truth is that kids in the Kansas City Northland rarely get alcohol from retailers; their source is usually older friends or family members.

 In the Missouri Student Survey conducted in 2024, 62.2% of adolescents claimed to have acquired alcohol through a friend, while 41.6% stated that they got alcohol through family members.

And while parents may think they’re doing the right thing because they’re “supervising” the situation, the reality is that they’re contributing to the problem – and worse – potentially causing harm. Research shows that teens whose parents provide alcohol – even with rules or supervision – are more likely to:

  • Drink more often
  • Drink more heavily
  • Experience alcohol-related harm

Providing alcohol does not protect teens and actually increases harm.

Now What?

As a parent, the steps you take today will have a profound impact on the health and future well-being of your children. That’s why it’s crucial to speak up and play a proactive role in preventing underage drinking. Parent Up provides a ton of resources for having conversations with your child about underage drinking so they’re more likely to make the right decision in the moment.

If you find yourself in a sticky situation similar to Nancy’s in the story above, you may feel conflicted on what to do.
Here are a few approaches you can take if you discover that other adults are providing alcohol or allowing underage drinking:

  • Contact the adults involved directly
  • Notify your child’s school or other parents
  • Contact local law enforcement’s non-emergency number

If you don’t feel comfortable taking these steps or they’re not the best options for your situation, we’ve created an anonymous warning letter you can send. It’s a sensitively written letter that informs the adult that it is known they provided alcohol to minors and outlines the dangers associated with underage drinking.

At Parent Up, our mission is to equip parents with facts, resources and tools to prevent underage drinking in the Northland. To learn more about what you can do to prevent underage drinking, check out our Prevent Alcohol Use page.

– Parent Up KC Staff

To the Parents of Our 2026 High School Graduates

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Parent Up | A Letter to the Parents of Our 2026 High School Graduates

Dear Parents & Guardians,

Graduation is upon us and it’s time to celebrate your child’s accomplishments and achievements! As you prepare to launch your child into adulthood, keep in mind that most kids value their parent’s advice when it comes to drugs and alcohol.

Parent Up is here with some reminders and action steps about how you can protect their celebration and their future:

  • Communicate with your teen that alcohol is bad for their brain and they should not drink before age 21. Drinking by those under age of 21 is strongly linked with increased risk for alcohol dependence later in life because the brain is still developing until the mid-twenties. Minors who drink are also more likely to use other drugs, have poorer academic performance, engage in risky sexual behaviors, and be injured or assaulted. Tell your child you don’t want them to risk their future, reputation, or safety, and you expect them to remain alcohol-free.
  • Create a game plan with your child so if they are offered alcohol, they know what to do. For example, help brainstorm excuses for saying no and develop a code word that your child can text you to let you know they are in a situation where they feel unsafe.
  • Stick with the majority of Northland parents that don’t provide alcohol or allow their child to drink, even on special occasions like graduation! Research shows that when parents allow, provide, or supervise teen drinking, it sends a false message that alcohol is safe for their underdeveloped brain.

By working together with your teen, expressing your concern for their health and safety, and setting clear and consistent expectations, you can ensure that this celebration is a positive memory they’ll have forever.

Congratulations to all the graduates of the class of 2026! And congratulations parents & caregivers!

Sincerely, Parent Up KC

Prom Is Coming! Parents Matter More Than You Think

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Parent Up | Prom is Coming! Parents Matter More Than You Know

Prom is one of the most exciting nights of high school:
Photos. Friends. Big plans. Big memories.

And while most teens in the Kansas City Northland celebrate safely without alcohol, prom season can bring added pressure and opportunity. After-parties and late nights can create situations where teens may be offered alcohol — even if they don’t typically drink.

Here’s what research tells us:

Parents still matter. A lot.

Teens who feel connected to their parents and know their family’s expectations are less likely to use alcohol — even in their later high school years. Clear rules and calm conversations go further than many parents realize.

You don’t need a long lecture. Just clarity, consistency, and connection.

Prom should be remembered for the right reasons. A few minutes of preparation now can make a big difference later.

👉 Take the 2026 Parent Up Prom Commitment and make your plan before prom night!

– Parent Up KC Staff

4 Simple Steps Parents Can Take Before Prom Night

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Prom safety doesn’t require perfection — just intention.

Before prom weekend, consider taking these four simple steps:

  1. Have a calm, clear conversation.
     Let your teen know your expectations around alcohol and other substances.

  2. Ask about the details.
     Who will they be with? Where are they going after? Who is driving? What time will they be home?

  3. Make a safety plan.
     What should they do if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe? Who should they text or call?

  4. Reinforce the norm.
     Most teens don’t drink — and most parents don’t provide alcohol. Remind your teen they’re in the majority when they choose not to drink.

Small actions make a big difference — especially during high-risk events like prom.

👉 Take five minutes to complete the 2026 Parent Up Prom Commitment and help make this prom season safe, memorable, and alcohol-free!

– Parent Up KC Staff

What Parents Should Know: Kratom & 7-OH

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Parents and caring adults, we are navigating a fast-changing landscape of drugs that didn’t exist when many of us were growing up. Kratom and 7-OH are increasingly common and widely misunderstood. You may have seen recently where Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway is investigating kratom manufacturers and retailers in the state, and Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas has introduced an ordinance prohibiting the sale of these drugs. This Insight offers straightforward information and supportive guidance to help families stay safe and connected.

What is Kratom?

  • Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a plant-based product from a tropical tree in the coffee family native to Southeast Asia.
  • Its leaves contain psychoactive compounds that produce both stimulant (uppers) and opioid-like effects.
Powered kratom is put into capsules (image from NBC news)

What is 7-OH?

  • 7-OH (7-Hydroxymitragynine) is a potent compound found in the kratom plant that is similar to other powerful opioids, but is often sold in synthetic or concentrated forms
  • Its use can quickly lead to dependence, withdrawal, and other medical complications

⚠️ Both Products:

  • The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) warns against both kratom and 7-OH use and warns consumers to avoid them due to risks of serious adverse effects, addiction, and medical complications
  • Even though they are marketed as “natural” or “herbal” energy boosters, these unregulated products are often synthetic and sold as tablets, drinks, or gummies  in gas stations, smoke shops, and online
  • Kratom and 7-OH can act like opioids, so they both can be highly addictive
  • Several states have banned these products from being sold, but they remain widely unregulated in Missouri currently
7-0H found in local Northland KC stores

What’s the Danger?
⚠️ Kids are at Risk: 

  • Kratom and 7-OH are often sold in places youth already visit, like convenience stores, and there are no laws about how old you need to be to purchase or keeping these products behind the counter and out of reach of kids
  • The marketing is flashy and appealing to youth too: Candy flavors, bright packaging, and “natural” labels can make these products seem harmless when they are not
  • Just like other opioids, the risk of addiction and mental health issues increases when youth are exposed young
  • Kratom consumption can lead to addiction and users have reported psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations
  • 7-OH is highly addictive and can cause severe withdrawal

🤔 What Can Parents Do?

Parenting has never been simple, and today’s world asks us to stay informed about things we never expected to navigate. The good news is this: Awareness is powerful and connection is protective. When parents stay curious, talk openly, and lead with care, kids are far more likely to make safer choices and reach out when they need help.

You don’t have to have all the answers to make a difference. Showing up, listening, and reminding your child that their health and future matter more than any quick fix sends a message that lasts. By staying informed and keeping the conversation going, you’re helping build trust, resilience, and a safer path forward for your family.

  • If they’re old enough, talk to your kids about the dangers of buying products from gas station counters that promise something that they can’t deliver on without consequences. Tell them that the stores are selling products that are dangerous and our laws can’t keep up to regulate and keep us safe.
  • Let your child know they can come to you or other trusted adults for help with overwhelm, stress, or pain. Assure your child that their well-being is a priority and that they have options for relief other than taking matters into their own hands. If needed, you can reach out to your child’s doctor or school counselor for help.
  • Adults and teens alike can also use the 988 Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or chatting at 988lifeline.org for free and confidential crisis support 24/7 from a trained crisis counselor if they’re struggling or overwhelmed. Learn what to expect when you contact the 988 Lifeline here.

                                                                                                             💙 Parent Up Staff

How To Talk To Teens About Marijuana: What Works

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As parents and caregivers, we all want to protect our kids and help them grow into healthy, confident adults. When it comes to marijuana—also known as cannabis, THC, weed, or pot — one thing is clear:

No amount of marijuana use is safe for youth.

Today’s marijuana is more widely available and much stronger than it used to be, and teens’ developing brains are especially vulnerable. Research shows that marijuana use during adolescence can affect learning, memory, attention, mental health, and even increase the risk of addiction. 

That can feel overwhelming—but here’s the encouraging news: your voice truly matters. Teens who learn about marijuana from their parents or caregivers, and who clearly understand family expectations, are half as likely to ever use marijuana or other drugs compared to their peers.

At Parent Up, we know parents and caring adults are the most powerful influence in preventing youth marijuana use. With the right approach, your conversations can build trust, confidence, and protection with your child — not conflict.

Set the Stage for Meaningful Conversations

Before you begin, start by trying to put yourself in your teen’s shoes. Think about how you would want to be approached on a tough topic. Aim to stay calm, open, and respectful. When we lead with curiosity instead of judgment, teens are far more likely to talk — and listen.

Ask open-ended questions:

  • What have you heard about marijuana?
  • What do kids at school say about it?
  • What do you think about it?

Listening first helps you understand where your teen is coming from and shows them that their thoughts matter. Conversations work best when they feel like a discussion, not a lecture.

At the same time, it’s important to be clear. You can be open-minded and firm. Let your teen know that because you care about their safety, health, and future, you don’t approve of marijuana use in any form. Clear expectations help teens feel supported and give them confidence to make safer choices—especially when faced with pressure.

Keep the Conversations Going

One of the most effective tools parents have is frequency. Talk often and casually. Conversations don’t have to be long or serious to be meaningful. Everyday moments work best: driving in the car, taking a walk, cooking dinner, or watching a show together.

Sometimes the environment offers an easy opening—passing a smoke shop, hearing something in the news, or seeing drug use portrayed in a movie. These moments can help conversations feel natural and less intimidating, and keep communication open over time.

Helpful Things You Can Say

You don’t need a perfect script. Simple, honest statements can go a long way:

  • “There’s a lot of information out there about marijuana, but I want you to come to me if you have questions.”
  • “If you’re worried about friends using marijuana, let me know—we can talk about it.”
    (In Missouri, more than 25% of youth report having at least one friend who uses marijuana.)
  • “I want you to know it’s not okay for kids to use marijuana—it’s illegal and not safe.”
  • “Your brain is still growing into your mid-20s, and marijuana can interfere with that growth.”

These messages communicate care, clarity, and trust—all at the same time.

Worried about Pushback?

Here are some ways to address some of the most common things teens might say:

What Your Teen Might Say: How You Can Respond:
"Ugh, again?! We've already talked about this!" “Yeah, I know we have, but it’s important to me that you know where I’m coming from and why I expect you to be drug-free. I care about you and love you. I want what’s best for your growing brain and body, so I’m going to check in with you sometimes or remind you of our rules because they keep you safe. I know you’re facing a lot of choices as you grow up and I want you to know where I stand.”
"Weed is safer than alcohol." “I’m not surprised to hear you say that because many people think that. But the fact is, there is no amount of safe drug use as a teen. Your brain and body are growing so much right now, and using any drugs during this time can have long term impacts on your brain and your health. Using marijuana as a teenager can also put you at greater risk of car accidents and making poor choices about sex or other drug use.”
“Marijuana is legal here now. Why would it be legal if it’s harmful?” “Many things are legal that can harm people, and especially kids and teens, like tobacco or alcohol. In fact, any drugs - including marijuana - can be more harmful to you than adults because you’re at a stage in life where your brain and body are growing so fast that it leaves you more vulnerable to addiction and the other harmful consequences of drug use.”
“I hear kids at school saying it’s from nature, so it can’t be harmful.” “I get that, but when you really think about it, that doesn’t make much sense. There are many natural plants that are harmful to humans like poison ivy, tobacco, and heroin, which is made from poppy flowers. Just because someone says it’s ‘natural’ doesn’t mean it isn’t harmful.”
“Did you smoke weed when you were younger?” {Answer with the truth, but bring it back to the present.} “Marijuana was a much less potent substance when I was a kid and I am really not happy with the decisions that I/my peers made when I/they did smoke. When you’re high or stoned, the ability to make good decisions is questionable and because today's marijuana is so strong, the risk is just too high.”
“My friend only smokes weed on the weekends and he’s fine.” “I am glad your friend isn’t using it throughout the week, but I am worried because using any drug during the teen years can be really harmful to your brain. I don’t want you to do anything that can be harmful, that’s why I expect you to not use cannabis.”

More Support for Parents & Caregivers

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Parent Up offers:

You are Your Teen’s Greatest Protection

Talking with your teen about marijuana may not always feel easy—but it is one of the most powerful things you can do to protect them. Your consistency, honesty, and presence make a real difference. Every conversation, no matter how small, helps build trust and strengthens your teen’s ability to make healthy choices.

You are your child’s greatest protection. And Parent Up is here to support you every step of the way.

5 Urgent Reasons to Keep Our Kids Marijuana-Free

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As parents and caring adults, we all want our kids to grow up healthy, happy, and confident about their futures. But with today’s marijuana products becoming stronger and more accessible, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and proactive.

Whether you hear it called marijuana, THC, cannabis, weed, or pot — one fact remains:

No amount of marijuana use is safe for youth.

Because the brain continues developing well into a person’s mid-20s, young people are especially vulnerable to marijuana’s effects on brain growth, learning, and mental health.

In fact, 90% of Americans who struggle with addiction today started using alcohol or other drugs during their teen years. Early prevention truly matters — and your guidance can make all the difference.

Here are five key reasons why keeping youth marijuana-free helps protect their health, safety, and future success:

1. Today's Marijuana is Much Stronger Than Before

Marijuana today is not the same as what existed decades ago. THC — the chemical responsible for the “high” — has risen dramatically in strength. While marijuana in the 1960s contained only about 1–4% THC, dispensaries now sell marijuana products averaging 18–23% THC, with some strains testing over 30%.

Even more concerning are concentrated forms like dabs, waxes, oils, and vapes, which can contain anywhere from 40% to over 80% THC. These highly potent products can trigger anxiety, paranoia, and psychosis — and the risk of addiction rises along with the dose.

Because these products aren’t regulated by the FDA, there’s no oversight on their safety or potency. Keeping teens marijuana-free helps protect their developing brains from these increasingly powerful and unpredictable substances.

2. Marijuana, Like Other Drugs, Can Be Addictive

It’s a common misconception that marijuana isn’t addictive, but science tells a different story. About 1 in 10 people who use marijuana will develop an addiction — and for those who start before age 18, the risk jumps to 1 in 6.

Teens are particularly at risk because their brains are still learning and forming habits. Just as it’s easier for young minds to learn an instrument or new language, it’s also easier for them to develop dependencies. Early marijuana use can also raise the likelihood of future substance use.

Helping youth stay marijuana-free is one of the strongest ways we can protect them from addiction.

3. Marijuana Use Harms Teen Mental Health

We know how much today’s teens are navigating — stress, peer pressure, and anxiety are real challenges. Some might turn to marijuana thinking it will help them relax, but research shows it can actually make things worse.

Regular marijuana use, especially with high-THC products, can interfere with emotional growth and make it harder for teens to cope with stress in healthy ways. Studies have linked teen marijuana use to higher rates of depression, anxiety, psychosis, and suicidal thoughts.

Our kids’ mental health is precious — and keeping them marijuana-free helps protect their ability to think clearly, feel deeply, and manage life’s challenges in positive, lasting ways.

4. Marijuana Use Harms Learning & School Success

Teen brains are wired for growth, curiosity, and learning — which makes these years so important. But marijuana use can interrupt this development, leading to problems with memory, attention, and motivation.

Teens who use marijuana often have more trouble focusing in class, completing assignments, and solving problems. Over time, that can lead to lower grades and a higher risk of dropping out.

And the effects don’t just fade when the high wears off — marijuana’s impact on attention and memory can last for days or even weeks. Some studies even show lasting declines in IQ for those who start using as teens.

Protecting our kids from marijuana use helps them stay sharp, focused, and ready to reach their full potential.

5. Marijuana Use Makes Driving Dangerous

Learning to drive is one of the biggest milestones in a teen’s life — but it’s also one of the riskiest times. Marijuana use slows reaction time, coordination, and judgment, making it dangerous behind the wheel. Combine that with an inexperienced driver, and the results can be tragic. 

Marijuana is the most common illegal drug found in drivers involved in deadly crashes, sometimes along with alcohol. Teens who use marijuana are also more likely to ride with someone who’s impaired, putting themselves at risk even if they aren’t the driver.

We can help keep them safe by setting clear expectations: Don’t drive high, and don’t ride with someone who is.

How We Can Keep Youth Marijuana-Free

Parents, the good news is that marijuana use among youth in the Northland is currently low — and together, we can keep it that way! Here’s how:

💬 Set clear expectations

Let your teen know you care deeply about their health and want them to stay marijuana-free. Clear, loving boundaries make a difference.

🧠 Keep the conversation open

Ask what your teen has heard about marijuana and share the facts calmly and honestly. Make sure they know they can come to you — or another trusted adult — with questions or concerns about anxiety, stress, or peer pressure.

💪 Prepare kids for peer pressure

Role-play scenarios so your teen feels confident saying “no.” Create a code word they can text you if they need help leaving an unsafe situation.

👀 Stay alert to changes

Watch for warning signs like red eyes, dropping grades, new friend groups, or shifts in mood. If you’re concerned, reach out for help early — support and resources are available.

Safeguarding our kids’ well-being is one of the most important things we can do — and you’re not alone in it. The potency of today’s marijuana, its addictive nature, and its effects on developing brains all underscore why prevention matters so much.

💛 Together, we can protect our kids, prevent addiction, and help them grow into strong, healthy adults.

Visit our Marijuana page for free resources, conversation guides, and support for parents and caregivers.

We Know How to Fight This: Flavored Marijuana

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If it feels like vaping is suddenly everywhere, you’re not imagining it.

Local reports and data from this past year show a sharp rise in the number of kids—especially middle schoolers—vaping flavored marijuana (cannabis).

The sweet flavors can make these products seem harmless, but experts warn that they’re driving addiction and causing real problems at school, with friends, and at home.

Photo credit: news.umich.edu

As a parent or caregiver, that can feel overwhelming. But here’s the encouraging part: we know how to fight this.
Twenty-five years ago, more than a third of teens smoked cigarettes. Today? That number is down to just 3%. 

Cigarettes didn’t vanish—our approach changed. Parents, schools, and entire communities came together to reshape policies, expectations, and conversations. And it worked. We can do the same thing with vaping marijuana.

Three Powerful Ways Parents Can Help

You don’t need a long script or special training. What matters most is staying engaged, connected, and clear with your kids:

1. Talk Often
 Regular, short, and honest conversations are far more effective than a single “big talk.” Ask what your child is hearing at school. Share what you know. Keep the door open.

2. Be Clear About Expectations
 Kids actually want to know where you stand. Let your child know you don’t want them using marijuana in any form—including vaping. Clarity helps them make safer choices.

3. Stay Close
 A strong relationship with a caring adult is one of the biggest protective factors against substance use. Your presence, attention, and support truly matter.

You’re Not Alone

Parenting through a changing landscape of substances can feel tough, but you don’t have to navigate it by yourself.
Parent Up offers tools, conversation starters, and resources to help you open these discussions and keep them going.

Together – just like we did with cigarettes – we can protect our kids and create healthier futures.

What’s Next:

– Parent Up Staff

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