“Does smoking cannabis make you a bad parent?” This question pops up in Quora and similar platforms in one form or another regularly. As cannabis becomes more accepted, more and more parents are using it every day to relax, for medical reasons, or just to unwind after a long day. When you, being a parent, use cannabis, you have to deal with unique challenges and duties that need open discussion and strict safety rules. Dealing with these problems isn't always simple, which is why we're giving you these tips: to make things a little easier. 

We'll talk about important steps to keep your home safe, from starting open and honest conversations to using safe storage options. ⁦Whether you use cannabis recreationally or for medical reasons, these tips will help you handle the tricky situations that come up when you're a parent that uses cannabis.

When thinking about whether to tell your kids you use cannabis, start by considering their age and maturity level. Younger kids might not need to know all the details, while older kids and teens can handle a more in-depth conversation. Adjust what you say based on what they can understand: keep it simple for little ones, and be more detailed with older kids who might come across cannabis with their friends. 

Being honest and open is really important for building trust in your family. Explain why you use cannabis—whether it's for medical reasons, to help you relax, or manage stress. Sharing your reasons helps set a good example of openness. When you're truthful, it makes it easier for your kids to come to you with their own questions or worries about cannabis or other things they might encounter.

By thinking about what's right for your kids’ age and being honest, you can create a trusting and open relationship. This way, you clear up any mysteries about cannabis and make sure your kids feel safe and informed. 

If you want to talk to your kids about cannabis, it may be good to wait until they are old enough or show curiosity. You need to be ready for when they show interest or ask questions. Being upfront can help you make sure they get the correct information from you instead of sources they can't trust. 

When you do start the conversation, make sure to use language that fits their age and level of understanding. If your kids ask about your own cannabis use, honesty is crucial. You don’t need to go into every detail, but sharing that you use cannabis and explaining why can help demystify it.  For younger kids, who might not need detailed information, keep it simple and straightforward: “Cannabis is a plant that some people use to help them feel better, but it’s only for adults.” For older kids and teens, you can provide more detailed information about the different forms of cannabis, its legal status, and how it affects the body and mind. This approach ensures they get the right information in a way they can understand and process. 

Emphasize that cannabis should be used responsibly—only by adults, in moderation, and never in a way that could put anyone’s safety at risk. Explain the importance of using cannabis in appropriate settings and never when you need to be fully alert, like when driving or supervising young children. This sets a clear example of responsible behavior and helps them understand the boundaries.

The first step to ensure your child's safety as a parent that used cannabis is to make sure to store your stash far away from their reach. Here are a few tips for you. 

• Original Packaging: Always keep your cannabis in its original child-resistant packaging. These packages are specifically designed to be difficult for children to open, reducing the risk of accidental ingestion. 

• Locked Storage: Store your cannabis in locked containers or cabinets that are out of reach of children. This is the most effective way to ensure they don’t accidentally access your cannabis.  

• ​​​Investing in specialized storage solutions: Products like the Dogwalkers Stash Bag offer a secure and stylish option for keeping your cannabis safe. This bag, along with other lockable containers, provides an extra layer of security and peace of mind. These bags are designed with safety in mind, featuring locks and child-resistant closures that help keep curious little hands away from your stash.  Upgrade your cannabis storage with the Dogwalkers Stash Bag, a stylish and secure solution designed with parents in mind. This 5”x7” forest green stash bag features a debossed faux leather Dogwalkers patch with a charming dog illustration print, adding a touch of personality to your cannabis storage. 

  • Smell-Proof Design: Keeps odors contained, ensuring discretion and maintaining freshness. 

  • Child-Resistant Features: Offers enhanced security to keep curious little hands away from your stash. 

  • Durable Material: Made from high-quality materials for long-lasting use. 

  • Compact Size: Perfect for easy storage and portability, fitting seamlessly into any secure location. 

Choose the Dogwalkers Stash Bag for a blend of style, functionality, and safety. 

Special Considerations for Edibles 

Many edible cannabis products look like normal snacks, which can make them very appealing to kids. Keeping edibles in sealed, locked containers that are not near normal food and snacks will help keep things clear and safe. To keep things as clear as possible, choose packages that don't look like regular food containers. 

Tell your kids that there are things in the house that are only for adults and that eating them will make them very sick. Stressing this message again can help stop unintentional ingestion.

• Impaired Driving: It's important to know that it's dangerous to drive under the influence of cannabis. Cannabis can make it hard to respond, coordinate, and make good decisions, which makes driving a car unsafe. Always wait until the effects of the plant are gone before getting behind the wheel., to keep yourself and your passengers safe. 

• Alertness: When you're responsible for supervising children, being fully attentive and present is essential. Cannabis can impair your ability to stay focused and react quickly in emergencies. Make sure that you are not under the influence when you are the primary caregiver. Your children rely on you to keep them safe and respond to their needs promptly. 

• Risks of Exposure: Secondhand cannabis smoke can be harmful, especially to children. Exposure to secondhand smoke can affect their developing lungs and overall health. Always consume cannabis away from children and in well-ventilated areas. Consider using edibles or vaporizers to minimize smoke exposure if you consume cannabis at home. 

• Breastfeeding: Because of the possible risks to the baby, using cannabis while nursing is not a good idea. The psychoactive part of cannabis, THC, can get into breast milk and might change how your baby grows and develops. To keep your baby safe and healthy, it's best not to use cannabis at all while you're nursing. 

• Being a Role Model: Many parents choose to use cannabis in secret so that they can keep their privacy. One way to do this is to use sweets, tinctures, or vaporizers, which are less obvious and lower the risk of being exposed to secondhand smoke. Being discreet about your use of cannabis protects your privacy and lets kids know that it's a choice that adults make, legally and carefully. 

Many parents who use cannabis find themselves facing a stigma that doesn’t seem to affect those who enjoy a glass of wine or a beer. This double standard is rooted in decades of misinformation and negative perceptions of cannabis use. While society has largely accepted and even celebrated alcohol consumption among parents, the same level of acceptance has not yet fully extended to cannabis. 

Parents who drink alcohol are often seen as enjoying a socially acceptable way to unwind. “Wine mom” culture, for instance, is widely acknowledged and normalized. Conversely, parents who use cannabis may still be perceived as irresponsible or negligent, despite using it in a similar manner to those who consume alcohol.  

​​“It is socially acceptable for a mom to say ‘Mommy needs a glass of wine’, but still not socially acceptable to say ‘Mommy needs to microdose’.”

Notes Heather McIlvaine-Newsad, a Professor of Anthropology in an interview for BBC. 

As people's views on cannabis and its legal status continue to improve in the US, there is hope that the stigma associated with its use, especially among parents, will fade and finally go away. As more people learn about and use cannabis, society may eventually realize that parents using it responsibly is the same as adults enjoying a glass of wine or a pint of beer once in a while. It's time to get rid of these old stereotypes about cannabis so that everyone feels welcome and supported in their choice. This includes parents who choose or need to use cannabis. 

Navigating conversations with their teenagers can be difficult for parents who use medical cannabis, particularly when it comes to avoiding accusations of hypocrisy. Emphasizing that cannabis is prescribed and managed by a healthcare professional and describing its medical need for managing certain health issues are key in establishing effective communication. While cannabis may be beneficial to them therapeutically, parents should be clear that it is not appropriate for teenagers whose bodies and brains are still developing. Parents can explain that the rules and safety regulations are in place to safeguard young people by explaining why their use of medical cannabis is needed, while recreational use by an underage person is illegal. Talking about the significance of these limitations in protecting health and wellbeing both legally and medically is beneficial. Parents can help their teens understand why they need to follow these rules and the value of open and respectful communication by encouraging them to talk about it. 

Parents, let’s discuss how you can enjoy cannabis while maintaining a discreet and safe environment for your children. We understand the importance of balancing personal wellness with family responsibilities. Here’s a detailed guide on how to consume cannabis discreetly and responsibly. 

Edibles: Convenient and Unobtrusive 

Edibles are an excellent choice for discreet cannabis consumption. These come in various forms such as gummies, brownies, chocolate bars, and beverages. Cannabis edibles blend seamlessly into everyday life, as they look just like regular snacks. The key advantage of edibles is their subtlety; they don’t produce any smoke or odor, making them perfect for use around the house. Remember to start with a low dose and be patient, as edibles can take up to two hours to take effect and can last several hours. 

Vaping: Efficient and Low-Key 

Vaping offers a smoke-free alternative to traditional smoking, significantly reducing secondhand exposure and lingering smells. Vape pens heat cannabis just enough to release its active compounds without burning it, producing a vapor that is much less harsh than smoke. Portable vaporizers are particularly handy—they are small, easy to use, and can be quickly stored away when not in use. This method is great for quick, discreet consumption.  

Tinctures: Versatile and Stealthy 

Cannabis tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts that provide a highly discreet method of consumption. They can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) for fast absorption, or added to food and beverages if you prefer a more gradual onset. Tinctures are excellent for precise dosing, allowing you to tailor your experience to your specific needs. They are also easy to store and use, making them a versatile option for any parent. 

Microdosing: Balanced and Functional 

Microdosing involves consuming very small amounts of cannabis to achieve therapeutic benefits without significant psychoactive effects. This approach is ideal for parents who need to find relief and maintain their daily responsibilities without feeling impaired.  

​​As Latrese Thomas, a US-based mother with two teenagers and a toddler mentions in her interview with BBC: “The big misconception is we just smoke to get blazing high. Well, no. I am still a mom. I still have to function. I still run a business. I still have to do pick-ups and drop-offs and attend practices.” 

Using cannabis as a parent requires mindfulness and care. Always keep your cannabis products securely stored away from children, choose discreet methods of consumption, and be aware of your environment. 

Juggling cannabis use and parenting isn't a walk in the park, but with the right approach, it’s very much doable. Honest conversations, smart storage, and setting a good example are your best allies here. Keep it real with your kids, stash your goods securely, and always use responsibly. 

At RISE, we're here to help you strike that perfect balance. Let’s make responsible cannabis use a part of your everyday life, safely and stylishly, drop by your nearest RISE dispensary or browse our online dispensary to find the ​​perfect cannabis gear and storage options!