New guidance recommends starting substance use education in kindergarten

A new framework called 'Anchoring Change,' developed by academics, addictions researchers, and school administrators, recommends beginning substance-use prevention and education in kindergarten with emphasis on interpersonal skills rather than punitive approaches, addressing the fact that substance-related deaths are the leading cause of mortality for Canadians aged 10–18.

Framework is guidance and recommendations; implementation across schools and sustained behavior change remain separate steps.