Talking with Kids about LGBTQ Issues
The resources below provide the language and information needed to discuss lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people and issues in an age-appropriate way with children and youth.
Resources from HRC’s Welcoming Schools
Welcoming Schools is an LGBTQ-inclusive approach to addressing family diversity, gender stereotyping and bullying and name-calling in K-5 learning environments. Learn more at welcomingschools.org.
- Definitions for Students & Adults
- Students’ Questions & Sample Responses
- What Does Gay Mean?
- What Do You Say to That’s So Gay?
Resources from Other Sources
What Does Gay Mean? (National Mental Health Association)
Additional Resources
Through innovative training and direct consultation with schools, child welfare agencies and other service providers, HRC’s Children, Youth and Families Program creates welcoming, affirming and supportive environments forLGBTQ prospective parents, LGBTQ-led families, and LGBTQ youth.
The program’s projects include:
- HRC’s All Children – All Families Project, which trains child welfare professionals to improve agency policies and practices around LGBTQ foster and adoptive families, as well as LGBTQ children and youth;
- HRC’s Welcoming Schools Project, which offers professional development and curriculum for schools to create learning environments that embrace family diversity, avoid gender stereotyping and end bullying; and
- HRC’s Youth Well-Being Project, which is anchored by the annual Time To THRIVE Conference, and promotes safety, inclusion and well-being for LGBTQ youth.
