They can provide you with the tools to create gender inclusive environments in your homes, offices, and communities, from how-to guides to sample training materials. Gender Spectrum– They provide an array of services designed to help families, schools, professionals, and organizations understand and address concepts of Gender identity and expression. Rochester University Counseling Center- keeps an updated list of websites and events with Resources for Parents of Transgender Children Their mission is to build on a foundation of loving families united with LGBTQ people and allies who support one another, and to educate ourselves and our communities to speak up as advocates until all hearts and minds respect, value and affirm LGBTQ people. PFLAG– envisions a world where diversity is celebrated, and all people are respected, valued, and affirmed inclusive of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. These are just a few of those resources available online.
There are a growing number or organizations set up to support the families of transgender youth and adults, some in NY, and some national. There are online support groups and list-servs, some monthly drop-in groups in certain cities and towns. These professionals should provide families with the resources towards allowing your trans youth to set goals towards how they ultimately want to live, and all the avenues they can take towards living their truth.Īnother way your new therapist can help is to provide you and your family with a list of resources designed for your support.
Clinical diagnosis is often something adults require before taking a course of action. Knowledgeable gender specialists can recognize specific markers of gender variance, confirming whether your child exhibits transgender traits as opposed to a phase they are going through.
TRANSGENDER CHILDREN EVERYWHERE PROFESSIONAL
In addition to providing much needed professional guidance based on accepted research, this step can set your mind at ease that “yes, this is actually happening”. As humans, we never outgrow the desire to connect with others like us, so just as your children may be looking to play or interact with other trans youth, you will also benefit from socializing with other adults who, like you, have chosen to be loving and supportive of your child’s gender identity.ĭefinitely see a licensed clinician. Additionally, they can perhaps recommend a local therapist, support group, parenting forum, or even play group with other transgender kids. In the end, this can help your family, as well as the family you reach out to, since you will no longer seem so alone in these circumstances. Remember they may be further along in their journey than you or they may be struggling with their own concerns, but either way it is a deeply personal experience that should be handled with sensitivity and candor. If you have noticed people in your community that identify as trans, or if there are any children in your son or daughter’s class that also seem to be experiencing the same thing, consider reaching out– in a respectful, polite way. The only difference is how each community chooses to treat the transgendered
But I guarantee you that this is something that has been happening and continues to happen in every community everywhere. “Oh, that’s liberal Hollywood!” you may say to yourselves. Brad and Angelina may have gone their separate ways, but they have both been the loving, supportive parents of a transgender child. Hugs and kisses may accompany these declarations of affection, and those are encouraged, even if your kid is old enough to be embarrassed.ĭid we mention to continue breathing? You aren’t alone, obviously. As stated in part one of this blog, after you make your peace with reality, a solid beginning towards supporting your transgender offspring is just acknowledging to yourself and to THEM that you still love them.