Supporting Your LGBTQIA+ Child

Parents strive to support their children in the best way possible. Having resources to help navigate areas of life that we don't understand is important.

Tips for Supporting your LGBTQIA+ Child:

  • Understand that accepting your child for who they are is important.

  • Lead every conversation with love.

  • Listen intently and without judgement.

  • Learn the appropriate terminology.

  • Show support at a level that is comfortable for you but be willing to grow.

Tips for Supporting yourself:

  • Know that your feelings are valid.

  • Find family support groups.

  • Educate yourself on the LGBTQIA+ community.

  • Keep in mind that this is a journey.

Online Resources (taken from OutYouth) :

Books, Films, Media

Parent presentation on Gender: Gender 101

Growing up Trans: In this documentary, FRONTLINE takes viewers on an intimate and eye-­opening journey inside the struggles and choices facing transgender kids and their families. Watch the full documentary online: pbs.org/video/2365520005

We’ve Been Around: A series of biographical shorts about trans and other GNC folks throughout history. http://www.wevebeenaround.com/

The Transgender Child: A Handbook for Families and Professionals - Find it here

The Gender Creative Child: Pathways for Nurturing and Supporting Children Who Live Outside Gender Boxes - Find it here

Transitions of the Heart: Stories of Love, Struggle and Acceptance by Mothers of Transgender and Gender Variant Children - Find it here

The ABC’s of LGBTQ+ - Find it here

A List of Books for Kids & Teens

Resources for Intersex Children and Youth

Intersex 101, Everything you want to know: A comprehensive introduction to understanding intersex children, published by InterACT - https://interactadvocates.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/INTERSEX101.pdf

What we wish our parents knew: A brochure on supporting your intersex child or youth, published by InterACT - https://interactadvocates.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/BROCHURE-interACT-Parents-final-web.pdf

InterACT: Comprehensive resources and other guidance on supporting intersex children and youth - https://interactadvocates.org/resources/intersex-resource-topics/