Connecting with LGBTQIA+ Communities

We live in an age where there is rapid and constant change in levels of respect, advocacy, and understanding regarding the expression of gender and sexual identities.

These areas of constant change may spark questions from your children, and they may experience confusion regarding how to navigate these social issues and conversations.

Fortunately, there are oftentimes advocates, community organizations, and other people and institutions that would be more than happy to break down complex LGBTQIA+ social issues into bite-sized pieces your child can understand.

Here is an idea for a fun and informative field trip for you and your child:

Take your child to a local LGBTQIA+ nonprofit or community center. 

• Do some online research, and locate your nearest LGBTQIA+ nonprofit or community center. Call ahead and make an appointment for you and your child to drop in and learn more about the organization, their mission, current advocacy initiatives, and current social justice issues. 

Allow your child to ask any questions they may have. Common questions children may ask include:

• What makes LGBTQIA+ individuals different from other people?

• How can someone’s gender change after they’re born?

• Aren’t boys supposed to like girls and girls supposed to like boys?

To increase your child’s engagement and understanding, by asking them the following questions:

• What was the most important thing you learned today?

• How can you share what you learned today with your friends?

• If you make a friend who identifies as LGBTQIA+, how can you support and respect this part of them?