We all know that kids and teens shouldn’t consume weed. But accidents can still happen.
Perhaps you enjoy cannabis yourself and are worried your kids might find your stash; perhaps you know their grandpa keeps edibles around; perhaps you just want to be informed in case your kids do find weed, since weed products are so accessible.
Not only are cannabis products becoming more legal and more popular, which makes them more accessible—but edibles in particular are often packaged attractively.
Dr. Scott Moore, pediatrician and Michigan Medical Director for Zarminali Pediatrics, agrees: “Cannabis edibles can be extremely harmful to children, especially because they can be easily mistaken for candy or baked goods.”
Actually, some of the most common ages for accidental overdose are kiddos ages 2-3.
One edible can also contain multiple doses meant for adults, making it even more dangerous for tiny kids. The symptoms can be delayed, which increases the likelihood that the child can finish the entire package.
Read on for what to do to keep your kiddo safe, and what to do if they get into edibles.
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Be aware that kids are far more vulnerable.
Children are smaller than grownups and aren’t accustomed to weed, so they are far more vulnerable to THC. Around ¼ of children need to be hospitalized after consuming edibles.
According to the National Poison Data System, between 2017 and 2021 there were more than 7,000 cases of exposure in kids six and under. Cases increased during that time by 1,375%, and 1 out of 4 kids needed to be hospitalized. Many kiddos even needed to go to the critical care unit.
How to store edibles safely:
“To avoid any accidents,” said Moore, “I recommend keeping all cannabis products in a secure spot that children can’t access, like a locked cabinet or a childproof container stored out of reach.”
Buy edibles that don’t look like candy, so if your kid accidentally gets access, they don’t instantly think, “brownie” or “candy bar.” Containers or cabinet locks can be easily purchased on Amazon or your local store.
Additional preventions
Don’t eat them in front of your kid! Kids always love to eat what we’re eating—especially if we’re trying to hide it from them.
If they’re going to someone’s house who eats edibles, have a chat with the adult to make sure the kids are being supervised and the edibles are stored safely away.
What to look for if you suspect your kiddo is exposed.
The main thing to keep your eye out for is symptoms of cannabis poisoning or exposure.
“Even the smallest amount can lead to symptoms like drowsiness, nausea or vomiting, difficulty with speech or walking—or even, in more severe cases, breathing problems or seizures,” said Moore.
Other symptoms include sleepiness, respiratory difficulties, loss of consciousness, confusion and anxiety.
Obviously if you find a wrapper or a half-eaten edible and you can’t account for it, it may be wise to assume your child has consumed it, and call your doctor accordingly.
All these tips also apply to pets, since cannabis can be dangerous for animals as well.
If your child was exposed, it’s recommended to call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or to go straight to the ER right away. “Follow their guidance closely,” said Moore.
