TURNERS FALLS — Several local school districts are coming together to host an event this Thursday, Parenting in the Age of Legal Marijuana, as a way to explain effects of changes to the law and the effects of marijuana on teenage brain development.
The event is hosted by several school districts and nonprofit organizations in the county, and is aimed at educating parents and those who work with children and teens about the possible effects on youth health.
According to organizers, the event grew out of requests by local school nurses. The event will discuss edibles, vaping, the adolescent brain and how to talk with teenagers about marijuana.
Jennifer Michaels, a brain specialist, will speak during the event, which runs from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Franklin County Technical School in Turners Falls.
Michaels is medical director of the Child and Adolescent Services Division of the Brien Center for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and an Assistant Professor at the University of Massachusetts Medical School.
The event is free, open to the public and childcare is available. Refreshments will be served at 5:30 and the presentation and Q&A will start at 6.