Supporting Your LGBTQ Child: Creating a Safe, Loving, and Open Environment at Home.

_source

Raising a child who identifies as LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning) is particularly challenging. LGBTQ adolescents confront some particular issues that guardians often feel unable to address, even though they are similar to their peers in many ways. Show them how much you care. The most terrifying aspect of coming out for many young LGBTQ people is telling their parents the news. You are their compass, and it is essential that they embrace you.

Make them aware of your concern. According to experts, there is no correct or incorrect approach to show love: Simply be there and receptive. Saying something as basic as "I'm available for you" will help, even if you're uncertain about what to say. To your child, the words "I love you and I will help you no matter what" can have immense meaning.

Encourage conversation. You probably already know how difficult it can be to persuade your children to open up. Building trust and starting small are the greatest ways to accomplish this. Show an interest in their life. Learn about the interests and hobbies of their peers. Find out about their day and whether they had any fascinating school lessons. Don't give up even if it occasionally feels like pulling teeth.

Kids genuinely desire to be able to chat to their parents about everything that's going on in their life. While these talks can seem obvious, being involved in your child's life helps them feel more comfortable coming to you with larger, more complicated problems, like sexuality. Your youngster will feel more at ease the more you talk to them.

It's not always possible to depend on your kids to start these conversations. When you think a conversation is necessary, attempt to be less direct. Adolescents frequently find it difficult to discuss themselves. When you watch suitable for your age movies or television with your child, parents can assist by bringing up their friends or characters. Parents can take advantage of many educational opportunities presented by today's media.

It's a chance to talk about delicate subjects in a less frightening way, even though it might appear less intimate. Saying something like, "This character in the show has an attraction to both boys and girls," can start a conversation if the movie features a bisexual character. I'm cool with that. What are your thoughts?

Keep in touch with educators on a regular basis. You can then be aware of problems as they occur. Encourage sex education that is more inclusive. States that forbid schools from giving LGBTQ children the safety and health information they require are quite few in number. Recognize these areas of ignorance so that you can address them on your own.

Above all, don't be shy about speaking up. In the educational system, parents are highly influential. It's true that you are powerful. Seek the assistance of the school board or administrator if there is an issue and the school is not responding to your concerns. Be alert for indications of bullying Many students experience bullying, but LGBTQ youth are particularly vulnerable to it because of their differences. Speak with an instructor if you see these indicators.

Recall that your primary responsibility as parental figure comes first, and that your child is struggling with this more than you are. Seek assistance if you're having trouble. Form a team with an a child psychiatrist, a school counselor, immediate family, or even community groups — Make certain that they establish wholesome connections. When children grow into teens, it's acceptable for them to become interested in other boys and girls their own age.

Most parents find dating intimidating, particularly when raising LGBTQ children, but dating is a crucial stage in the development of all children," the statement reads. Engage with them and maintain contact to keep them safe. Encouraging your child to date in a manner that is age- and health-appropriate sends a strong message.

Maintain your social media presence. Many LGBTQ people rely on the internet and mobile applications to connect with others because they are often dissuaded from being outspoken about their gender identity and sexual orientation. LGBTQ kids can communicate with allies and companions in an inclusive environment on many social media platforms and apps, but some—particularly dating apps—contain content that is unsuitable for adolescent audiences.

Keeping an eye on what they're doing on their gadgets and having conversations with them about using social media and phones. Recognize that when children feel alone and unsupported, their behavior can become unpleasant. Be there for your child so they don't have to go elsewhere for direction or assistance.