While discussions about gender and sexuality change as children get older, there are resources for parents to use to navigate the developmentally appropriate conversations. By modeling acceptance and love for all LGBTQ identities, you can build a strong foundation for positive self-esteem. For more information, visit the website of the Center for Gender and Sexuality. It offers information on how to discuss these topics with your child. Listed below are some tips to help you get started.
Lesbian
Parents may be unsure of how to explain LGBT to a child. There are ways to help them understand this issue without making assumptions. Parents can seek support from pediatricians, school counselors, community organizations, and other professionals. Children tend to respond better when they’re surrounded by a positive environment. The following tips can help. Parents should keep in mind that they should not make assumptions or condemn their children. They should listen carefully to their child and avoid making judgments about something they don’t fully understand.
Children are naturally inquisitive and observant. They may ask questions about family structures, behaviors, and even things they don’t recognize in their environment. Taking the time to educate your child on these topics is a great way to start a conversation about sexuality. Children are particularly sensitive to differences and have no problem asking questions about people in their community. However, they may be surprised to learn that people of different backgrounds share the same values as them.
Kids should learn the difference between genders and know what they mean by queer. The word queer is used to describe people with different gender identities and all forms of love. When used in a cruel way, however, it can hurt people. For more information, check out the Human Rights Campaign’s news and events section, or visit this website for resources on LGBT issues. These organizations can help parents and children deal with the issue of LGBT.
Identify the friends, relatives, and neighbors of LGBTQ people. Even if your child doesn’t ask about it directly, they may already know someone who is. They may not even know that they have a gay parent. When they know someone who is gay, it can help them accept them more. Positive interaction with these people will help them adjust to the new community. The family can also use these new allies to support each other.
When introducing LGBTQ topics to young children, it’s important to separate them from the “birds and bees” conversations. A common misconception among children is that LGBTQ issues are about body parts. However, these are not all that different and are more about acceptance than anatomy. Maggie Robinson, a mom of a baby boy, has found great resources for educating her son about the importance of loving people, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Gay
Talking to your child about the world is a critical part of homeschooling. It builds a strong bond and helps your child navigate their world. One topic that must be discussed is sexuality. If you’re unsure how to approach this topic, it’s important to find a progressive homeschool curriculum. As more curriculums begin to include information about the LGBTQ+ community, resources are becoming available to help you navigate this conversation.
First, try talking to your child about what it means to be gay. If your child knows a gay person, it’s easier for him or her to make comparisons. If your child does not know a gay person, try telling them some facts about famous LGBTQ+ people. Some children may worry that they’ll change their personality after they become gay. Reassuring your child that you’re still the same person they know will make them feel better about the transition.
As your child grows older, they may start asking questions about other teens and how they feel about their classmates’ sexual orientation. Try to be patient and sensitive to their concerns. Try to create an environment where your child can feel free to express himself or herself and be happy. Limit judgments when it comes to things you don’t understand. Ask your child about their feelings so that you can give a child the opportunity to express his or her views in an open way.
Whether you choose to discuss the topic at home or on a school field trip, June is the perfect time to start a conversation. It’s not just Pride Month that can spark a conversation. Talking about sexuality and gender identity should take place throughout the year. News stories, conversations with your child, or experiences in the community are all perfect teachable moments to spark a conversation. So, celebrate your child’s diversity by teaching your child to be tolerant and supportive of others.
When talking to your child about the LGBT community, it’s important to keep in mind that these topics are often associated with body parts, which is not always the case. When talking about these topics with your child, you’ll want to separate this conversation from “birds and bees.” While the discussion of body parts can be fun and exciting, the LGBTQ community has a more important message to convey: acceptance.
Bisexual
The first step when trying to explain LGBT to a child is to understand the bi identity. Bi people are sometimes referred to as “bi-curious”, “pan” or “queer.” It can be hard to tell whether a child is actually bi or not, but it is important to acknowledge that a child’s gender identity is real and not just a phase. By recognizing their bi identity, parents can reassure their children that it is a valid part of who they are.
Another approach is to read books about LGBT people. There are many books with LGBT themes that children can relate to, which can open up the conversation and inspire questions. Higgins recommends “The Family Book” by Todd Parr, “The Great Big Book of Families” by Mary Hoffman, “And Tango Makes Three” by Justin Richardson, and “What Makes a Baby?” by Cory Silverberg.
When your child asks questions about words used to describe LGBT people, be sure to provide simple answers. Remember to listen first before responding to a question, as it will give you an opportunity to understand their questions. You can also give examples to demonstrate what those words mean. These examples will help your child understand the meaning and use of the terms. Then, encourage open communication in your family. Try to foster an accepting community with your child.
Children are highly observant and curious. While they may not be fully aware of their identities, they will look for clues to how their parents are feeling. By discussing current events and LGBTQ celebrities, children will know that their parents are supportive of the identity and can relate to it as well. Children who are exposed to LGBTQ issues may come out earlier than their parents did. This opens the door for acceptance. So, take your time and don’t be shy.
Byard suggests that parents frame the LGBTQ identity issue in a positive light. While it is true that they should respect a child’s right to privacy, parents should be careful not to reinforce stereotypical beliefs and prejudices. In addition, the child’s reactions will be shaped by their parent’s comfort level. If they know that you’re open to all types of people, the child will feel more comfortable approaching the subject.
Transgender
You may be wondering how to explain LGBT to a child. As a new mom, you may have many questions, such as: What is a lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender child? How can I raise my child in an environment that is often intolerant of these differences? If you are facing this question, there are several steps you can take to help your child understand what’s going on.
One way to approach the topic is by talking to a close LGBT relative. Ask your child about their partner’s love story, and be sure to make it as interesting and relatable as possible. Your child will probably be fascinated by the story of their parent falling in love with someone else. You may also choose to ask your child how he or she feels about the subject. A good way to start is by discussing the age-old adage “you can’t judge a book by its cover.”
Discuss stereotypes with your child. Children who know gay people can draw comparisons with themselves, but children who don’t know anything about them can find examples from famous LGBTQ+ people and learn about the facts. Some children worry about their new identity, but you can reassure them that they are still the same child. They can use their new knowledge to learn more about their new identity, and they can feel proud of their own uniqueness.
Talk about the history of the LGBTQ movement. The Trump administration’s recent decisions have arguably targeted LGBT rights. The administration’s ban on transgender people in the military reflects the Trump administration’s anti-LGBT policies. The Obama-era executive order banning federal contractors from discriminating against employees who are LGBTQ is also being rolled back. As a parent, you don’t want to hide political reality from your child. As much as possible, be as open and honest as possible.
When discussing sexual identity with your child, don’t wait until Pride Month. Pride Month is an excellent time to start a dialogue. Rainbow Pride flags, dozens of Pride parades, and Pride-related political events are perfect excuses to talk about this important issue. Your child may even bring home information about Pride Month. If you’re unsure how to begin, contact GLSEN, a nonprofit advocacy network.
