"Many of us idealize a day in which no one needs to "come out," when wherever someone falls on the gender or sexuality spectrum is accepted and embraced. Sadly, today is not that day - the world can be cruel (and often is) to anyone who doesn't fit into the heteronormative bubble. But if you're here, it probably means the last thing you want to do is contribute to the mental and emotional toll put on LGBTQ young people."
""Thank you for sharing this with me." Or some variation, like: "Thank you for sharing your truth." "I'm so glad you've trusted me with this." "I'm so happy you shared this with me." "You're safe with me." But one overarching theme remains: Be safe. Don't "other." Relish in the trust. Be ready, but not pushy, to chat more when they're ready."
""Kids just wanna know that their parents love them in the grand scheme of things," shares Ashley Brundage, CEO of Empowering Differences, a mom and trans woman. "My mom was a hot mess for two weeks when I came out to her. But after my sister told her that she was either going to have two daughters or no daughters, her decision to support me was very simple.""
Respond with gratitude and simple affirmations when a child comes out, using phrases like "Thank you for sharing this with me" and "You're safe with me." Prioritize safety, avoid othering, and honor the trust shown in that moment. Offer readiness to continue the conversation without pressuring the child, letting them dictate timing and depth. Parents may feel upset initially but can move toward supportive choices that prioritize acceptance and emotional well-being. Clear, compassionate responses and protections against rejection reduce mental and emotional harm for LGBTQ young people.
Read at Scary Mommy
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]