Share
How do I talk to elementary students about Lgbtq?
Question
Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive a link and will create a new password via email.
Answer ( 1 )
Talking to kids about sexuality is always tricky because they don’t really understand why adults might want to date someone of the opposite sex. They also don’t understand why adults would want to date someone of their own sex. But at the same time, they should be taught that different types of relationships exist and that they shouldn’t judge anyone based on their sexual preferences.
It’s important to note that children learn about sexuality by watching the adults around them. As such, it’s very likely that your child already knows something about homosexuality. For example, he may have seen his parents kiss, she may have seen her friends kissing, or he may have overheard one of his siblings talking about it.
If your child asks questions about homosexuality, it’s best to answer honestly without giving him specific details. Instead, tell him that you don’t discuss personal matters online. He needs to ask you directly about anything else he wants to know.
You could explain that being gay isn’t a bad thing, but that it’s just not something that happens often. Also, let him know that although there are lots of different kinds of families, yours is one of them. Let him know that it’s okay to be attracted to people of the same sex.
He may ask why you aren’t married, and you could point out that marriage is a religious institution that is practiced differently in every country. You could also mention that some people prefer to live together instead of getting married.
Finally, you could suggest that he read books about famous people who were homosexual. That way, he won’t be surprised when he finds out that some of his heroes were gay.
Start by asking questions
When talking to children about LGBT issues, it helps to ask open-ended questions. Ask them about their experiences, opinions, and feelings. This gives them the opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas freely.
If you’re not comfortable asking direct questions, try posing hypothetical situations. For example, say you were at school and saw two boys kissing each other. Would you be okay with that? Or would you feel uncomfortable?
By asking these types of questions, you give kids the opportunity to express themselves and learn about others’ points of view. They may even surprise you with their answers.
Be open minded
When talking to kids about LGBT issues, be open-minded. Don’t assume that everyone thinks exactly like you. Kids come from different backgrounds, and many may not agree with your views.
Instead of trying to convince them, try to understand where they’re coming from. This will help you avoid being offended when they disagree with you.
Also, remember that it’s okay to change your mind. Be willing to listen to others’ opinions and consider changing your own beliefs.
Don’t assume they know what it means
Lgbtq stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer. This acronym describes sexual orientation and gender identity.
If you’re teaching children, be aware that many kids may not understand this term yet. They may use words like “gay” or “lesbian” instead of “LGBTQ.” Don’t assume they know what these terms mean. Instead, ask them directly.
Ask questions like: What does LGBTQ stand for? Do you know anyone who identifies as LGBT? Are there any groups you belong to at school?
Also, avoid assumptions about their sexuality. Many young people identify themselves as straight, but still have same-sex attractions. Ask them directly if they’ve ever had feelings for another person of the same sex.
Finally, remember that some kids may feel uncomfortable talking about their own sexuality. Be sensitive when asking questions and try to find out more information about their personal experiences.
Final note
Talking to kids about LGBT issues isn’t always easy, but it’s important to start early so that they don’t grow up feeling like they’re different from everyone else.