It’s never too early to start talking about gender with your kids. In fact, the sooner you start, the better. Here are four different ways parents approach talking about gender with their kids. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to know which one will work best for your family.
The Traditional Approach
The traditional approach to talking about gender with kids is to simply tell them that there are two genders – male and female. This can be a good way to introduce the concept of gender, but it’s also important to talk about how people can identify as something other than just male or female. Otherwise, your child may think that they have to be one or the other.
The Progressive Approach
The progressive approach to talking about gender with kids is to start by explaining that there are more than just two genders. This can be a good way to open up the conversation and allow your child to explore their own identity. However, it’s important to make sure that you’re still providing information about the traditional genders as well. Otherwise, your child may only identify as something other than male or female.
The Gender-neutral Approach
The gender-neutral approach to talking about gender with kids is to avoid using gender labels altogether. This can be a good way to allow your child to explore their identity without feeling pigeon-holed into one gender or the other. However, it’s important to make sure that you’re still providing information about the traditional genders as well. Otherwise, your child may only identify as something other than male or female.
The Individualized Approach
The individualized approach to talking about gender with kids is to tailor the conversation to your child’s specific needs and interests. This can be a good way to ensure that your child is getting the information they need about gender. However, it’s important to make sure that you’re still providing information about the traditional genders as well. Otherwise, your child may only identify as something other than male or female.
Conclusion
No matter which approach you take, it’s important to be respectful and open-minded. Remember, your child is just exploring their identity – they’re not making any permanent decisions. So try to create a safe and supportive environment for them to do so.
Have you talked about gender or ways to promote gender equality with your kids? How did it go? Let us know in the comments below!