Family Builders

Keywords: Best Practices; Child Welfare; Fundamentals; Resources for Providers 

This one-page tip sheet outlines some basic principles for working with LGBTQ+ and Gender Expansive children and youth.  

These include:  

• The increased risks faced by LGBTQ+ and gender expansive youth are not inherent to their identities, but stem from the stresses of prejudice, discrimination, rejection, and mistreatment. 

• A child who is being abused because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or gender expression (SOGIE) may not feel comfortable “coming out” to you. Be patient and help them feel affirmed. 

• Never “out” a child/youth. If SOGIE needs to be discussed with others, ask the child’s permission to discuss their SOGIE. [Summary adapted from resource.] 

File : pdf with 0.85 MB in size

Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, & Expression Affirming Key Principles