A guide for parents

Any parent or caregiver could certainly have a lot on their plate with respect to their trans or nonbinary child, especially at first. A child’s disclosure of their gender identity is often sudden and unexpected. It can be fraught with emotion for everyone. While a caregiver is navigating this crucial time, they must also consider the place where their child spends the most time outside of the home – their school. Children do not tend to consider any advance preparations that their school might need to do, nor should they. This is not their responsibility and they are often unaware of what could or should be done in order to optimize their schooling experience. A caregiver that takes time in advance to learn more about the school climate will find themselves better prepared for these next steps with the school.

The list of questions below can serve as a starting place for a parent/administrator conversation.