Life
I’ve thought a lot about what I would do if my child was transgender. Not because it’s something I want to prevent, or something I’m worried might happen. No, I’ve thought about it because I want to be prepared with ways to support a transgender child if they tell me that they think they’re trans (and especially if they tell me they know they’re trans). Maybe they won’t use the word "transgender," but if they express a dysphoria with their body or a feeling that they’re not the gender they were assigned at birth, I want to be able to help guide them through the process of claiming their true gender.
Supporting your transgender child is crucial to helping them develop self-worth and a sense of love for who they are. Unfortunately, growing up trans can still be very difficult. It shouldn't be this way anymore, but even in 2016, they’ll likely face judgement and scrutiny from the outside world. They shouldn’t have to face it at home, too. Their home and their family should be their safe haven, one that builds them up and validates their whole self, that accepts them for who they are and loves them for exactly that. So if you find yourself raising a transgender child, or know someone who is, here are few things should and shouldn't do to support a trans kid and make them feel totally, completely loved.
5
Do Seek Out Other Trans Children
Finding other transgender kids that your child can relate to can be super helpful. Showing them stories of trans kids online lets them know that they’re not abnormal or broken or alone in this. People like Jazz Jennings are also great examples of trans kids doing awesome things.
6
Don’t Sugarcoat Things
Be honest with your child about the way the world may respond to them. If you’re not, you’re failing to prepare your child to navigate the world, which is part of our job as parents. Let them know what to expect and help prepare them to cope with it.
7
Do Reading And Research, Both Alone And With Your Child
Look for resources for both you and your child. There are also children’s books about being trans. The TransYouth Family Allies is a great place to start.