April is an exciting month. Spring is in the air, the Easter bunny makes a visit and we celebrate earth day by planting trees in hopes of improving our well being.
But did you know April is also the month when some teens celebrate 420, a day observed for smoking marijuana. Where did 420 originate from? There have been numerous speculations as to how it got its name from police codes to Grateful Dead posters. I don’t think anyone really knows where it originated from but if you have been around a bit you probably already know what it means.
However, our kids today are using it and scheduling the day April 20th at 4:20 (am/pm) to get high. As a parent I thought it was important to share this information with you, in the event you hear this you will know exactly what it means and what could be going on.
How do I know about this day? I have teenagers and I am proud to say they have chosen to stay away from drugs and alcohol this far. They share with me what goes on in their day and update me on the pop culture. I think some of that is so I don’t embarrass them, because I am good at doing that on occasions.
So what as parents are we to do? Educate your self and ask questions. My kids know I will check computer, phones, friends and the school when I feel a concern. They also believe I will drug test them, because once entering High School I purchased a kit and it sits in our medicine cabinet. I have never had to use it but they know I have no problems asking them to do it.
Learn the slang:I thought it would be better to provide you a link to some common slang words from about.com, drug slang dictionary.
http://parentingteens.about.com/cs/marijuana/l/bldicmarijuana.htm
Ask Who, What, Where & When: Especially on this day, but everyday know where your kids are. It’s your job to be nosy, in their business and all over them if that is what it takes to keep them safe and drug free. My kids tell their friends they are wrapped in bubble wrap because they have to call me and check in, I also have all their friends’ cell numbers (and yes I will call them). I drop by and check on them and I know what movies they are seeing. Are they perfect, NO! Do they pull the wool over me, Of Course! But I make it difficult for them to do it.
Recognize Paraphernalia: Educate yourself on what pipes look like. Household items also can be used such as coke cans, toilet paper rolls, apples etc. Look for drug references in their rooms; posters, pacifiers, flashing necklaces/toys and other items. Education is the tool and knowledge is the key.
Signs in your Teen: Kids on drugs show signs; giggling, isolation, red eyes, snacking and anything else that are different for your kids-Question???
Communication: I think the number one way to prevent drug use in teens is communication. Discuss Drugs openly; the dangers, peer pressure, alternative choices, expectations. Encourage them to openly express there feeling about drugs. Tell them your expectations, share your knowledge and support them through these times.
Teens who know their parents are educated and open about sensitive issues like drugs are less likely to get involved with drugs. Don’t be afraid to tell them you will not tolerate drug use and you will take action in the event they try.
Let’s keep our kid’s safe and drug free.
But did you know April is also the month when some teens celebrate 420, a day observed for smoking marijuana. Where did 420 originate from? There have been numerous speculations as to how it got its name from police codes to Grateful Dead posters. I don’t think anyone really knows where it originated from but if you have been around a bit you probably already know what it means.
However, our kids today are using it and scheduling the day April 20th at 4:20 (am/pm) to get high. As a parent I thought it was important to share this information with you, in the event you hear this you will know exactly what it means and what could be going on.
How do I know about this day? I have teenagers and I am proud to say they have chosen to stay away from drugs and alcohol this far. They share with me what goes on in their day and update me on the pop culture. I think some of that is so I don’t embarrass them, because I am good at doing that on occasions.
So what as parents are we to do? Educate your self and ask questions. My kids know I will check computer, phones, friends and the school when I feel a concern. They also believe I will drug test them, because once entering High School I purchased a kit and it sits in our medicine cabinet. I have never had to use it but they know I have no problems asking them to do it.
Learn the slang:I thought it would be better to provide you a link to some common slang words from about.com, drug slang dictionary.
http://parentingteens.about.com/cs/marijuana/l/bldicmarijuana.htm
Ask Who, What, Where & When: Especially on this day, but everyday know where your kids are. It’s your job to be nosy, in their business and all over them if that is what it takes to keep them safe and drug free. My kids tell their friends they are wrapped in bubble wrap because they have to call me and check in, I also have all their friends’ cell numbers (and yes I will call them). I drop by and check on them and I know what movies they are seeing. Are they perfect, NO! Do they pull the wool over me, Of Course! But I make it difficult for them to do it.
Recognize Paraphernalia: Educate yourself on what pipes look like. Household items also can be used such as coke cans, toilet paper rolls, apples etc. Look for drug references in their rooms; posters, pacifiers, flashing necklaces/toys and other items. Education is the tool and knowledge is the key.
Signs in your Teen: Kids on drugs show signs; giggling, isolation, red eyes, snacking and anything else that are different for your kids-Question???
Communication: I think the number one way to prevent drug use in teens is communication. Discuss Drugs openly; the dangers, peer pressure, alternative choices, expectations. Encourage them to openly express there feeling about drugs. Tell them your expectations, share your knowledge and support them through these times.
Teens who know their parents are educated and open about sensitive issues like drugs are less likely to get involved with drugs. Don’t be afraid to tell them you will not tolerate drug use and you will take action in the event they try.
Let’s keep our kid’s safe and drug free.
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Great Post! I'd like to add - I also have a drug testing kit in my pantry. It also gives your teenagers an excuse, "my mom has a drug testing kit and she is not afraid to use it!"
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