Binary views of gender identity and sexual orientation are not only inaccurate, they are dangerous.Ĭhildren begin to have an innate sense of their gender identity between ages 3 and 5, while gender consistency (recognition that gender remains the same across situations) occurs between ages 4 and 7. (Gender identity is your inner sense of self, while sexual orientation is whom you are attracted to.) Teaching this through simple language to children helps them understand and navigate themselves, their relationships, and develop compassion for others. Yet human experiences, including gender identity and sexual orientation, exist on a spectrum with fluidity. And parents will be encouraged to sue the school district for any potential violations.Īs humans, we innately categorize things and people (black or white, happy or sad, boy or girl). If a child is struggling with their identity, they will be forbidden to ask for help. So, consider these possibilities: A child with 2 same-sex or gender parents will be prohibited from discussing their family. But the “Don’t Say Gay” bill currently being considered by Florida legislature would ban any school discussions regarding gender identity and sexual orientation in primary grade levels or “in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students”, which is vague and could apply through 12th grade. I went on to provide psychological support and therapeutic recommendations, including LGBTQ+ support lines and “safe” health providers in the community.Īs they develop, children need to explore, self-reflect, and discuss themselves and their families. Then he said, “I know my chart says I’m a girl, but I know I’m a boy-that’s why I tried to kill myself last week.”Īt that moment, I realized the power of that rainbow sticker-and especially the strength of this child. He looked up at me and then my ID badge, which has a small rainbow sticker on it.
Limited responses.Īs part of my standard evaluation as a pediatric psychologist, I asked the 14-year-old about his gender identity and sexual orientation.