Back-to-School with Your LGBTQ Teen: A Parent’s Guide
As summer winds down and a new school year starts up, there is both excitement and anxiety about what the upcoming months will bring. For parents of LGBTQ teens, this time of year can come with challenges and choices. Here are some tips to help ensure a smooth transition and support your LGBTQ teen during this school year.
1. Understand the School’s Policies
Get to know your child’s school policies and resources related to LGBTQ+ students. This includes anti-bullying policies, LGBTQ+ clubs/support groups, and who your child can talk to at school if they are struggling during the day. Knowing these details can help you advocate for your child if needed and reassure them that they have support from both parents and the school.
2.Create a Supportive Home Environment
Create a home environment where your teen feels safe, valued, and listened to. Affirm their identity and let them know that they are loved and supported. One small thing that can make a big difference is using the name and pronouns your child asks for. This can increase their well-being and, more importantly, decrease depression and suicidal thoughts by almost 50%.
3. Start the Conversation and Keep Checking In
Check in with your teen about their feelings and expectations for the school year. Ask them how they’re feeling about school and listen to their concerns. This can help you gauge how they are doing in the first few weeks of school and if they could use support. Set up times during the semester to check in and see if things continue to go well.
4. Encourage Self-Care
The start of the school semester can be stressful for any student. Encourage your teen to practice self-care and maintain a healthy balance between schoolwork, social activities, and relaxation. Help them try out new self-care methods, like art, cooking, yoga, taking walks, making music, etc.
5. Stay Informed and Educated
Educate yourself about LGBTQ+ issues in your state and stay updated on what is going on in your district. This will help you better understand your teen’s experiences and provide more informed support. Making an effort to understand what your teen might be facing will go a long way in connecting with them.
6. Be Patient and Flexible
Each teen’s experience is unique, and their needs may change during the school year. Be patient and flexible as they navigate their journey. Your child may need different support at the start of the year compared to the end. Their interactions with peers and their approach to homework may also change over time.
7. Seek Support if Needed
If your teen is struggling, don’t hesitate to seek support at school or from mental health professionals. Therapists with experience working with LGBTQ+ teens can provide valuable support and guidance, both for parents and teens.
As your teen embarks on this school year, remember that your support and love are crucial to their continued success and emotional well-being. By staying informed, communicating openly, and fostering a supportive environment with self-care, you can help ensure that your LGBTQ teen feels confident and secure as they navigate the school year ahead.