When it comes to cannabis stores in Ontario, the rules are clear: no one who appears to be under 25 years old is allowed to enter the store, unless they first present a valid government-issued ID and are convinced that the person is at least 19 years old. This is a measure put in place by Health Canada to ensure that children are not exposed to cannabis products, as seeing them may confuse them and affect their care when storing them. Adults aged 19 and over can purchase up to 30 grams (approximately one ounce) of dried recreational marijuana for personal use at the Ontario cannabis store, either online or in person. Retailers must purchase their products from the provincial wholesaler, Ontario Cannabis Store, and the government has imposed strict packaging requirements to prevent accidental consumption and make sure that cannabis products are not attractive to children.
Parents and caregivers can take additional steps to prevent cannabis products from falling into the hands of children. It is legal to grow up to four plants per residence (not per person) and legal seeds and seedlings can be bought at the Ontario cannabis store. In states where cannabis is legal, such as Colorado and California, many municipalities that initially chose not to participate have decided to re-enter after seeing that the sky has not collapsed and after witnessing the economic benefits that cannabis brings. Scarborough has 22 commercial premises and 16 beer stores, but there are no plans to have any cannabis stores during the first phase of Ontario's retail deployment. When it comes to talking to children about cannabis use, there is no “right age” as every child is different.
However, having the conversation before they are likely to try using cannabis will establish a connection from the start and allow you to share your concerns.
