Supporting Our Children During Pride Month + Beyond

When Pride Month approaches, many parents wonder how they can best support their children understanding the celebrations and history of the LGBTQ+ Community. It may seem daunting, but there are several ways to help your child gain a better understanding of this important month. 

First and foremost, it's important to listen to your child's questions and concerns with an open mind and heart. Allow them to express themselves and feel free to ask questions if you don't understand something. Remember, it's okay to not have all the answers. This can also be an opportunity to learn and grow alongside your child. 

Next, consider doing some research together. Find age-appropriate books, videos, and articles that explain the history of Pride Month. This can help your child undersand the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ Community, as well as the importance of self-expression and acceptance. 

You can also attent Pride events with your child if they are age-appropriate and comfortable for your family. This can be a way to show support and solidarity and can provide an opportunity for your child to see diversity and inclusivity that the LGBTQ+ Community embraces. 

Anotehr way to support your child during Pride Month and beyond, is to donate time and resources to LGBTQ+ organizations. This can help your child understand the importance of giving back and support communities that may not have the same privelege and rights of others. 

Remember, supporting your child(ren) during Pride Month isn't just about learning the history and celebrating the accomplishments of the LGBTQ+ community. It's also about fostering a sense of acceptance and love for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identities.

In conclusion, supporting your child's understanding of Pride Month and beyond doesn't have to be overwhelming. By listening, learning together, attending events, donating and promoting acceptance, you can help your child gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the LGBTQ+ community. Let's work together to create a more inclusive and accepting world for all! Happy Pride! 

Check out our podcast on this topic! 

Author

Dr. Muhammad Zeshan My name is Muhammad Zeshan, MD, and I am a Harvard trained infant, child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist at Inside Out, a private practice based in Princeton, New Jersey. I am currently working as an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School-Newark, New Jersey. Through Inside Out CURE, my focus is to help individuals become more Compassionate, Understanding, and aware of their inner strength and vulnerabilities, while developing Resilience and Empathy. I offer a variety of mental health care services to all age groups (infancy through adulthood) by applying principals of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, positive psychology, family therapy, parent-child intervention therapy, pharmacology, and neuroscience.