From our friends at Learning for Justice: “The entire community is responsible for protecting and supporting children, especially in times of crisis. In empathizing with families, educators and community members who must respond to the needs of children as a traumatizing event unfolds, we’ve gathered recommendations and resources to help guide conversations with young people and to manage potential subsequent actions and reactions. Some LFJ resources contain recommendations from the National Association of School Psychologists, the Child Mind Institute and the American School Counselor Association.”

In this post we include resources and supportive guiding principles for families and educators seeking to support children around gender identity.

We value our children's social and emotional development and know that from the age of 3 months children begin to notice differences and develop their own racial biases. For many children of color, this can bring up big questions and feelings about identity, belonging, confidence and dignity. As parents we can use these moments as opportunities for positive social and emotional development; to tend and care for our children.

Are you a teacher welcoming children into your class? Or a parent/caregiver readying to meet your child's new teacher?

This helpful resource from one of our favorite organizations, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) can be used to introduce us all in community - you can adapt it to 1:1 conversations, or just keep it in mind when you're meeting new folks in your child's spaces and activities.