How do parents protect their children from cannabis at home?

Parents protect their children at home from cannabis by setting clear rules, storing cannabis safely and talking openly about the subject. Protection works best when children understand the reason for a rule. Teens often only keep a rule that is merely announced when someone is watching.

What the law requires at home

Under section 5 KCanG, use in the immediate presence of minors is prohibited. This applies regardless of whether the use takes place in one's own home. For parents, that means children must not witness use in their immediate presence. How far that reaches in an individual case is decided by authorities and courts. The BIÖG advises declaring the home a cannabis-free zone.

Possession, acquisition and cultivation of cannabis are prohibited for minors. Section 10 KCanG also requires cannabis and propagation material at the place of residence to be protected against access by third parties, in particular children and young people, through suitable measures and safety precautions.

Safe storage at home

Cannabis belongs in a place to which children have no access. A locked cupboard or a box with a lock is simple protection. It is important that this place also stays hidden from friends who stay overnight or visit.

• Always keep cannabis locked and out of reach.
• Keep keys or codes separate from children and visitors.
• Put accessories and packaging away as well, as they can attract children.
• Do not leave anything lying on the table or in the living room when visitors arrive.

Rules that children understand

Children follow rules better when they can understand why the rules apply. Explain the rule in simple words suited to their age. A primary school child needs a different reason than a teenager who already talks with friends about cannabis themselves.

A few clear rules that apply to everyone in the household are helpful. These include, for example, that cannabis is kept out of children's reach, and that parties involving substances only take place by agreement. More rules rarely bring more protection.

Conversations that strengthen children

Protection also comes from conversations. Children who know they may ask questions are more likely to seek help when they have problems. Talk about feelings, about friends and about situations in which pressure arises. It helps to listen yourself and not to judge straight away.

If your child asks a question you cannot answer, say so openly. You can look it up together, for example on the pages of the BIÖG, which provide information for parents.

Noticing changes without controlling

There are signs that should alert parents: sudden withdrawal, changed sleeping habits, poorer grades or new circles of friends. Such signals do not automatically mean cannabis use. They are, however, a reason for a conversation.

Control can damage trust. Asking regularly and showing interest is better than secretly searching rooms and messages. If you do have a specific suspicion, raise it openly.

When an incident happens

If a child brings cannabis or uses it, stay matter-of-fact and seek a conversation. The article What should you do if you find cannabis with your child? describes the first steps. In the case of repeated incidents, counselling is worthwhile so that the family can find a common line together.

Prevention: an environment that strengthens children

An environment in which children experience self-esteem and leisure time helps. The BIÖG names it as a risk factor when cannabis use becomes ever more important in free time, so that hobbies and friendships are neglected. Parents can actively encourage sport, music and friendships. In addition, the age at which use starts affects the consequences: the article What are the consequences of an early start to use? explains why the early years are particularly important.

Friends, visitors and parties at home

Visitors are part of family life, and that is exactly where situations often arise in which substances are in circulation. Decide who may stay overnight in your home and when guests are welcome. Talk with your child about parties before they happen, and agree that you will be informed when meetings take place at your home.

The most important thing is that children know they can get in touch when something gets out of hand. A call without blame is often the only way you can help in time.

Storing everything in the home safely

Cannabis is not the only substance children can reach. Medication, alcohol and other substances also belong out of reach. A fixed place that is clear to everyone prevents mix-ups and accidental intake. Small children quickly reach for anything that looks sweet or colourful. If there are cannabis-containing foods, such as biscuits, in the household, those too belong out of reach.

Setting an example in your own behaviour

Children watch how adults deal with alcohol, tobacco and medication. If parents use cannabis themselves, the question of rules arises in a different way. Speaking honestly about one's own use is hard for many parents, but it strengthens the credibility of the rules. The article What should you do when your child asks whether you have smoked cannabis yourself? takes up this question.

Next steps

• Set a few clear rules together with your child.
• Store cannabis safely and out of reach.
• Plan regular conversations that do not only happen when there are problems.

The legal framework is summarised in the youth protection section. Further information for families is in the prevention and youth protection topic area.