If a child has eaten cannabis, treat it as an urgent medical situation. Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or 911 if the child is very sleepy, having trouble breathing, seizing, or cannot be woken. Do not wait for symptoms to appear, because edible effects can be delayed.
Kid Eats Cannabis Edibles Reddit Experiences: What to Know
What should I do first if a child ate cannabis?
Stay calm, keep the child in a safe place, and call Poison Control right away. Have the product packaging, if available, so responders know the THC amount and type. If the child is unconscious, struggling to breathe, or having a seizure, call 911 immediately.
Key Features
- Child-resistant packaging does not make cannabis childproof.
- Edibles often look like candy, cookies, brownies, gummies, or chocolate.
- Effects can be delayed 30 minutes to 2 hours or longer.
- Common signs include sleepiness, unsteady walking, nausea, vomiting, and confusion.
- Serious signs include trouble breathing, seizure, severe agitation, or unresponsiveness.
- Keep cannabis locked up, out of sight, and separate from food.
- Save Poison Control’s number and the product label for emergency responders.
Materials and specs
There is no safe exposure “spec” for a child. Risk depends on body weight, product potency, serving size, and how much was eaten. THC concentration in edibles can vary, and homemade or loosely labeled products may be stronger than expected. Packaging, dose, and timing are the details a medical professional will ask for.
Shipping and returns
If cannabis edibles arrive by delivery, unpack them immediately and store them locked away from children and pets. If child-resistant packaging is damaged or not working, contact the dispensary or retailer about a return or replacement before bringing it into the home.
how to prevent kids from eating cannabis edibles
How long can edible effects last?
Edible effects usually start within 30 minutes to 2 hours and can last 6 hours or more. For children, the effects may feel stronger and last longer than expected.
What symptoms are serious?
Call 911 for trouble breathing, seizures, severe drowsiness, agitation, or if the child cannot be woken. These are emergency signs, especially in young children.
How can I prevent another exposure?
Store all cannabis in a locked box or cabinet, not in a purse, drawer, or fridge. Label it clearly and keep it away from snacks and drinks.