What if a child is gay or transgender?

You may sense that a child in your class, congregation, or family may be gay or transgender. What should you do?

  • Love that child unconditionally as an amazing gift from God.
  • Deepen your understanding of sexual orientation and gender—read, discuss, and learn as much as you can.
  • Get help—don’t go it alone. Find a PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) or other support group.

Sexual orientation and gender identity aren’t choices, and you can’t change them. However, your responses can change how children feel about themselves and their outlook on life.

Here is an easy-to-understand research report in English and in Spanish about the impact of family acceptance or rejection; it shows that healthy and supportive parenting or teaching that enhances self-esteem can have a vital impact on the well-being of any child.


Adapted from All God’s Children:Teaching Children about Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity.

Contributed by Melany Burrill

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