Hey there, Cosmic Unicorns here! We know that raising a transgender or non-binary child comes with its own set of challenges and joys. And we want to help you create a home environment that is as supportive and inclusive as possible. Here are some tips to get you started:
- Learn all you can about gender and identity. Evidently, there are so many amazing resources out there that can help you to understand these complex and beautiful concepts. These are:
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/article/understanding-gender-identities/
https://www.npr.org/2021/06/02/996319297/gender-identity-pronouns-expression-guide-lgbtq
https://www.hrc.org/resources/resources-on-gender-expansive-children-and-youth
Be sure to research the local LGBTQ+ organizations in your city or town. They are likely to have groups for your young unicorn as well as parent support groups. This to help you be the best parent you can be. Our Cosmic Unicorn blogs have lots of resources regarding affirming books and our social media has tips on raising gender diverse children. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to create a loving and accepting home for your child.
- Respect your child’s pronouns and name, no matter how often they change. Discovering one’s gender identity is a journey and it may time time for your child to find the identity, name, and pronouns that fits them best. Thus, if your child has chosen to use different pronouns or a new name, make sure that everyone in your household uses them consistently. By using your child’s preferred pronouns and name, you are showing them that you respect their identity and that you are committed to supporting them.
- Create a cozy and welcoming space in your home. This could be a private room or corner where your child can retreat to if they need some alone time, or it could simply be a place where they feel safe and loved. As a result of creating this kind of space, you are giving your child a place where they can be themselves and feel accepted for who they are.
- Open the door to conversations about gender and identity. Encourage your child to ask questions and express their thoughts and feelings about their own gender and identity. Validate their experiences and let them know that you are there to listen and support them, no matter what. By being open and available for these kinds of conversations, you are creating a welcoming and accepting environment where your child can explore their identity and feel comfortable being themselves.
- Encourage self-expression and creativity. Let your child choose their own clothes, toys, and activities, and support them in trying out different hairstyles or makeup. So, by encouraging self-expression, you are helping your child to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin.
- Be an advocate for your child in the wider world. This might involve working with your child’s school or other organizations. As a result, this can create a more inclusive and supportive environment, or speaking out against discrimination or bullying that your child might encounter. So by being an advocate for your child, you are helping to create a more accepting and welcoming world for them to grow up in.
- Surround your child with positive and affirming role models. This can include finding books, movies, and other media that feature transgender or non-binary characters. In addition, seeking out real-life role models and mentors who can provide support and guidance. Thus, by surrounding your child with positive and affirming role models, you are helping them to see that they are not alone and that there are others who understand and support them.
In conclusion, creating an inclusive and supportive home environment for your transgender or non-binary child takes time and effort. But it is an important step in helping your child to feel accepted, loved, and valued for who they are. By following these steps, you can create a space where your child can thrive and be themselves. And where they know that they are always welcome and supported.