As a parent, you want your child to feel loved and supported, especially if they are sharing with you that they identify with the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

Here are a few do’s and don’ts in the conversation with your child during their coming out process:

Do: Foster a positive 2SLGBTQ+ atmosphere in your household, and between friends, and family.

Create diversity/openness in your home about the conversation around the 2SLGBTQ+ community. For example: conversing if the topic comes up at the dinner table, and watching movies or TV shows where 2SLGBTQ+ themes and actors are represented.

If you feel your child may identify with the 2SLGBTQ+ community, create an environment that supports and respects that. This will make it easier for them to come out to you when it is time.

For example: Use gender-neutral terms when talking about relationships. Datemate, Enbyfriend, and Companion are just a few.

DON’T: Make it about you

Many parents need time to process, adjust, and re-educate themselves when a child comes out. However, it is important not to make the process about your adjustment, because your child is likely experiencing more intense and important feelings.

Also asking your child to keep their coming out journey a secret from other family or friends will only add stress, and likely create damaging mental health effects in the long run.

Instead, leave it to your child to decide when they want to share their news, at their own pace.

DO: Open a dialogue. Continue the conversation.

If you don’t feel comfortable continuing the conversation with your child, try consulting other family/friends in the 2SLGBTQ+ community, or reach out to organizations.

Absorb and reflect on the information given, so that your child can feel comfortable coming to you to discuss their feelings and emotions in a safe space.

DON’T: Ask if it is a phase

If a child has chosen to share their coming out with you, it is very important to support them through every step of the process.

Embrace, don’t dismiss their sense of self. Advocate for your child if you feel they are being mistreated because of their identity.

 

We hope these tips have proved helpful for you as an 2SLGBTQ+ parent.

If you need further support, some Canadian organizations that are here to help include:

https://pflagcanada.ca/, https://www.youthline.ca/, https://kidshelpphone.ca/