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Responding to Questions
Children often have questions about LGBTQ and gender topics that many educators are not prepared to answer. How teachers respond to these teachable moments or to LGBTQ and gender put-downs is critical for creating a school climate that is affirming and welcoming for all children, youth and families.
Welcoming Schools has several resources to help teachers give affirming, inclusive responses to children’s questions, to interrupt gender stereotypes and prevent bias-based bullying.
- Why does Bess have two moms? Which one is her real mom?
- What does transgender or non-binary mean?
- Why is Martin wearing pink? Pink is a girl’s color.
- What does gay mean?
What Do You Say to ‘That’s So Gay’ & Other Anti-LGBTQ+ Comments?
It doesn’t matter if it is a first grader who might not know what the word “gay” means, a sixth grader trying to sound cool or a tenth grader “teasing”…
Read Moreabout What Do You Say to ‘That’s So Gay’ & Other Anti-LGBTQ+ Comments?
Professional Development Training for Your School: On-Site or Virtual – Gender & LGBTQ+ Inclusive
HRC Foundation’s Welcoming Schools program has certified facilitators across the country ready to work with your school or district to improve school climate with gender and LGBTQ+ inclusive trainings. See…
Who Can Marry Whom? Inclusive Conversations About Marriage
The U.S. Supreme Court ruling on June 26, 2016 that guaranteed the fundamental right of marriage to same-gender couples was an important moment in history. It is our job as…
What Do You Say to ‘That’s So Gay’ & Other Anti-LGBTQ+ Comments?
It doesn’t matter if it is a first grader who might not
know what the word “gay” means, a sixth grader trying
to sound cool or a tenth grader “teasing”…
Be Prepared for Questions and Put-Downs about Gender
It is important to practice how to respond to questions related to gender and how to interrupt gender based teasing and bullying. Being prepared will help you embrace teachable moments…
"Yes, They Are a Family!"
Children ask questions to understand the world around them. Be prepared with these sample responses about family.
What Does "Gay" Mean?
There is not one right answer
Many educators are unsure how to respond when a student asks you what does gay mean. It is better to try to answer than…
Defining LGBTQ+ Words for Elementary School Students
When children ask questions about LGBTQ+ words, it is often best to offer simple and direct answers. You might choose to answer a student’s question with another question to figure…
Be Prepared for LGBTQ+ Questions & Concerns
When receiving professional development training from HRC Welcoming Schools or using our materials, families, school staff or school boards may initially feel nervous about creating inclusive classrooms and schools, especially…