Understanding LGBTQ+
Sexuality
Understanding and embracing your child's sexuality is crucial for their overall well-being and development. Our resources provide comprehensive information on topics such as sexual orientation, healthy relationships, consent, and communication. By educating yourself and fostering open, supportive conversations, you can help your child navigate their sexuality with confidence and pride. Explore our articles, guides, and links to external organizations to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to support your child's journey.
Gender
Gender is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human identity that goes beyond the binary notion of male and female. It encompasses a spectrum of identities and expressions, including non-binary, genderqueer, and genderfluid, among others. Gender identity refers to an individual's internal sense of their own gender, which may or may not align with the sex assigned at birth. Understanding and respecting gender diversity is crucial for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all children, especially those who are gender-expansive.
It is important to make distinctions between instances where “kids are being kids” and when they’re asserting things about themselves that are critical to their identity and development – as is the case with gender identity and expression. HRC.org
An estimated 2.8 million people ages 13 and older in the U.S. identify as transgender. The Williams Institute studies discrimination and bias against transgender people and other gender minorities and examines how these experiences affect their health and socioeconomic well-being.
When parents and caring adults become more informed about their LGBTQ+ child’s journey, they become empowered to become the best possible advocates for their children. Parachute courses increase general understanding of LGBTQ+ issues, increase affirming behaviors among parents and caring adults, and improve the environment for LGBTQ+ people everywhere.
You're navigating parenting an LGBTQ+ child without a manual and knowing what to do and what to say isn't always easy. Each week we’ll visit with other parents of queer kids, talk with members of the LGBTQ+ community, learn from experts, and together explore ways to better parent our LGBTQ+ children. Join with us as we walk and talk with you through this journey of raising healthy, happy, and productive LGBTQ+ humans.
InterACT Advocates for Intersex Youth provides a fantastic comprehensive guide to understanding Intersex, including the causes, surgeries, and the legalities you need to know when you have a child who is Intersex.
The willingness to learn, the active step of acknowledging and affirming LGBTQ+ students, and empathy in recognizing the difficulties for the young person help create safer spaces for trans and nonbinary children. Written by Dorothee Benz, Ph.D. for Learning for Justice
It can be tough for transgender and nonbinary people to bear the burden of educating others about their lived experiences. Our Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Young People is an introductory educational resource that covers a wide range of topics and best practices on how to support transgender and nonbinary people. thetrevorproject.org
A list of carefully researched and thoughtfully discussed definitions for key gender and sexuality terms. (Sourced from Michigan State University)
