This factsheet was created by Fenway Health.

HERE’S HOW THE AUTHORS DESCRIBE THIS FACTSHEET:

A growing number of youth are realizing that they are transgender — a person whose gender is different from their birth sex, often called the sex that they were “assigned at birth.” For some parents and guardians, it is a big surprise to learn that a child is transgender, while for others, it makes sense right away. Some parents and guardians feel confused, sad, or disconnected when they first learn that a child is transgender and feel that they need to get to know their child again.

Even when parents/guardians are not surprised or sad, many feel worried about their child’s safety, happiness, and future. Most parents and guardians feel unprepared to help their child navigate life as a different gender, particularly in relation to peers, siblings, school administrators, family, and faith communities. You, your child, and your family deserve love and support. Many families are uncertain about how to find knowledgeable, affirming health care, counseling resources, friends and role models for their child, and support for themselves, especially early on after learning that a child is transgender. Many families find that the beginning of this journey is the hardest and that, with time and support, life gets easier.