“Our children need us more than ever. Varying states are introducing and passing bills that block access to affirming medical care and they are restricting true inclusive discourse in schools that silence teachers and students who wish to proudly share their LGBTQ+ experiences which could enhance relationships and respectful acceptance amongst peers.
One of the best ways any parent can take care of their child is to take care of themselves. Find information on how to seek mental health services for you and your child.
Parents of transgender youth can help their child get connected to a healthcare provider who can provide supportive and affirming medical care. Learn more about medical options offered to transgender youth in the Gender and Sexuality Development Clinic at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Once your child comes out to you, you are going to be faced with a lot of decisions, and it is very important to talk to your child about each step that you take with it.
This resource provides information for parents about gender identity, the difference between binary and nonbinary trans people, and what they can do to help their transgender child.
Listen to Dr. Hawkins discuss common developmental stages, gender language, when to refer to a gender specialist, and how providers can talk to both patients and parents about gender and sexuality.
Listen to Zachary McClain, MD, a pediatrician specializing in adolescent medicine and Medical Director of CHOP’s Young Men’s Clinic, talk about taking care of teenagers, in particular young men.
Since everyone’s gender identity is unique to them, there is no one perfect way to come out. It can be tricky to figure out how to come out, but it is an important step in getting to be yourself.
The Out4STEM Internship Program provides Philadelphia’s LGBTQIA youth with healthcare and STEM-oriented instruction, mentorship, academic support, and college/career preparation in an inclusive, safe space. It aims to promote resilience, peer support networks, and diverse educational experiences.
In this video, Nadia Dowshen, MD, MSHP, and Linda Hawkins, PhD, LPC, discuss the challenges faced by transgender and/or gender-expansive children, youth and their families, and identify solutions for supporting this patient population to achieve optimal health and well-being.