(Editor’s Note: This post contains updated information related to Resources for Parenting Transgender Kids from May 13, 2016.)
Transgender issues continue to rise to prominence in the media, news, and politics. While some celebrities take problematic stances on trans rights, we have also seen greater representation of transgender people in mainstream media thanks in part to social media. Sites like YouTube and apps like Tik-Tok are full of transgender people of all ages and backgrounds sharing their experiences.
I felt like it was time I revisited my blog post from May 2016 when I introduced Resources for Parenting Transgender Kids. Yes, our kids have more ways to connect with transgender peers than ever before. However, these connections between transgender youth do not make understanding their needs any less challenging for parents. As our children become braver and express their true selves we must be prepared to love, support, and protect them.
So, what do you do if your child is questioning their gender identity or comes out as transgender? What resources can you offer your children when their friends come out as transgender to help them be understanding and supportive? What does it mean to be transgender?
Resources for Parents
Below are some good places to start if you want to learn more about what it is to be a transgender person and learn the language to discuss this with your children.
- Kids in the House offers wonderful resources including:
- TransYouth Family Allies offers
- The Human Rights Campaign addresses the issue of a lack of resources and offers suggestions to parents of transgender children as well as general information about what it is to be transgender and the legal and social challenges transgender people face.
- PFLAG is a great resource with a list devoted to parents of transgender youth.
- If you want to know more about the healthcare needs of transgender youth and want facts about gender-affirming care
- Nursing License Map has an insightful blog post: The Importance of Gender Affirming Care for Transgender and Gender Expansive Youth
- The Trevor Project has also released information about gender-affirming care for youth
- If you are concerned about substance abuse, mental health issues, and suicide prevention, DrugRehab.com offers valuable resources for parents
- Word Tips has a guide for inclusive language.
- Intelligent.com offers a comprehensive guide for LGBTQIA+ college students
These are some of the best resources I have found for educating myself about transgender issues. Parenting transgender children has one important thing in common with parenting every child – they need our love and support.
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