Parent FAQs
Yes. There are ways parents can help children embrace the fullness of what it means to be a unique and loveable human person. Being proactive parents who maintain open communication and vigilantly restrict and monitor screens is important. This also means investing in good resources for use at home, and being aware of what is taught at schools and other community organizations (see question below regarding school). Lost in Trans-Nation A Child Psychiatrist’s Guide Out of the Madness by Dr. Miriam Grossman is an engaging and comprehensive reference we recommend to families. Advocates Protecting Children has some wonderful video and book resources for parents as well. Examples include Parenting in a Transgender World by Dr. Erin Brewer and Desist, Detrans and Detox by Maria Keffler. Always Erin is a good children’s book for elementary school children. I Don’t Have to Choose by Ellie Klipp is an excellent book for children in preschool through first grade. Middle & High School youth will enjoy and learn much from Ms. Klipp’s novel Choosing.
Review this handout from the ACPeds.
Hug them and tell them you love them. Look them in the eyes and tell them that you will be with them to help them achieve optimal health. All children need to be assured of their parents’ love and that they will not abandon them. Then follow the advice on this page to locate a gender exploratory counselor. You will also find a wealth of helpful information in the book Lost in Transnation by child psychiatrist Dr. Miriam Grossman, Desist, Detrans & Detox: Getting Your Child Out of the Gender Cult by Maria Keffler, and the Common Sense Care parenting videos by Dr. Erin Brewer and Maria Keffler.
No. Across America, adolescents are allowed to consent to healthcare for birth control, treatment of sexually transmitted diseases, drug and alcohol abuse, mental illness and “gender affirming care” without parental consent. Depending upon state law, adolescents may also be able to consent to abortion without parental permission or knowledge. It is critical that parents realize that public schools may aid children in transitioning without parental knowledge.
Follow the guidelines on this page to find a gender exploratory therapist.
- Learn how to advocate in various ways with the Back to School Guide for Parents
- The Family Policy Alliance will train you to run for School Committee here
- Parents should consider all school choice options here