As a parent, it’s not uncommon to find ourselves in tricky situations when our kids ask questions that catch us off guard. Just the other day, a parent named Sarah shared her experience: “While driving my kids to school, one of them asked, ‘Who’s Bruce Jenner?’ I completely froze and just said, ‘an Olympic athlete,’ before changing the subject.” In that moment, she chose to sidestep a potentially enlightening conversation.
Despite my background as an author of a children’s book, I understand the hesitation. However, it’s important to foster open discussions about LGBT individuals and families with our children. This isn’t just a personal crusade; it’s about preparing our kids for the world they live in, where the presence of the LGBT community is increasingly visible. The advancements in marriage equality and the rise of transgender visibility mean our children will encounter openly identifying LGBT people more frequently. By ignoring this reality, we do them a disservice and put educators in the difficult position of having to disregard LGBT students and families in their classrooms.
How to Approach the Conversation
So, how would I have approached the question? I would explain: “Bruce Jenner was a renowned Olympic gold medalist, but today he’s known for something significant. At 65, he is sharing his truth with the world: he identifies as a woman, even though he was born with a male body. It’s fascinating, isn’t it?”
I’d elaborate that Bruce didn’t always understand his feelings and experienced confusion and shame about wishing to have a different body. Many people share similar experiences, and there’s a term for it: transgender.
Doctors now recognize that being transgender is simply part of human diversity; it’s akin to receiving mixed signals during development in the womb. The good news is that medical advancements offer options, such as hormone therapies and surgeries, which help align one’s body with their inner identity. However, many transgender individuals find comfort simply in changing their name and adopting the clothing and hairstyles that resonate with them.
Promoting Kindness and Respect
While you might not meet a transgender person personally, it’s crucial to treat anyone you encounter with kindness and respect. Avoid prying questions that you wouldn’t want directed at you, and embrace them for who they truly are inside, not just their outward appearance.
Conclusion
In summary, it’s essential to address questions like these directly and simply. Avoid complicating the conversation with topics like sexual orientation, as they diverge from the core issue of gender identity. If we don’t provide answers, our kids will inevitably seek them from peers, often leading to misinformation. By communicating openly, we show respect for their curiosity and the truth that Bruce Jenner has bravely shared.
If you’re interested in more about parenting and reproductive health, check out our post on Cervical Insemination. For those on a fertility journey, you can find quality at-home insemination kits at Make a Mom. Additionally, for comprehensive information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit UCSF’s IVF Resource.
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