Support Your LGBTQ Child: Building Open and Loving Relationships

When a child comes out, the most important thing to do as a parent is to support them. Your LGBTQ child wants you to be there for them and love them. As a parent, this might be a big change for you, and it can take some getting used to, but be patient with yourself and your child. In 1977, gay rights activist Harvey Milk said, “All young people, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to achieve their full potential.

You need to create a safe and supportive space for your LGBTQ child because your acceptance matters to their health and safety. As a parent, you want the best for your child. You want them to feel safe and happy. Here, you'll learn how to build an open and loving relationship with your LGBTQ child.

Understanding LGBTQ Identities

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Now, your LGBTQ child has just come out, this is completely new territory to you. The first thing to do is to educate yourself on LGBTQ identities. Find out simple things like; What does the term LGBTQ mean? Understanding simple things like this will help you relate better with your child. You can get more information through various websites and books. You could also join an LGBTQ family support organization to get more insights.

Make sure your LGBTQ child feels seen by you. Prove to them that you are willing to learn more and grow with them. Do not be too hard on yourself. If your first reaction wasn't the best, you can still do better and learn how to support them. It is important to create a supportive space for your LGBTQ child. This will help you deepen your bond with them.

Open Communication

After understanding LGBTQ identities, the next step is communication. Let your LGBTQ child know that it is okay to talk to you. Make them feel comfortable sharing their feelings with you without fear of judgment. Show them that you are interested in hearing them out. Ask them questions like ‘What can I do to help you feel supported.' This will let them open up more and realize that you are truly there for them.

Active listening is super important here. Allow them to express themselves properly and think before responding. You can paraphrase what they say to show that you are listening and want to understand more. Make sure to acknowledge their emotions. The conversation may be a little weird or awkward but do not fret. It will get better along the line. What matters here is open communication and showing your LGBTQ child that you care.

Acceptance and Advocacy

The last and most important step is acceptance. Make sure your LGBTQ child knows that you love them still, regardless of how they identify. Don't stop telling them how much you love them and support them. It is important to advocate for your LGBTQ child. This can mean educating other family members, attending community events, and standing up for bullying. Show your child that you stand for them, at home and in public.

Final Thoughts

Supporting your LGBTQ child is simply about understanding, open communication, creating a safe space, acceptance, and advocacy. By doing this, you have not only created an open and loving relationship with your child but also made them stronger and happier. Embrace this journey, be patient with yourself and your child, and watch your bond with your LGBTQ child become stronger. Love and acceptance are key.

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Article originally written by Ibukunoluwa King-Okuneye