When your child comes out to you, here are the first seven things you should do.

As a parent, hearing that your child is gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender can be a difficult and emotional experience. It’s important to remember that your child has likely been struggling with their identity for some time and has finally mustered the courage to share this with you. Here are the first seven things you should do when your child comes out to you:

1. Listen without judgment

The most important thing you can do when your child comes out to you is to listen to them without judgment. This means not interrupting them, not questioning their feelings, and not trying to change their mind. Let them speak openly and honestly about their identity and how they feel.

2. Show your support

Your child may be feeling vulnerable and scared, so it’s important to show them that you support them. Let them know that you love them no matter what and that you will always be there for them. This can be a difficult time for your child, so your support can make a huge difference.

3. Educate yourself

If you’re not familiar with the LGBTQ+ community, it’s important to educate yourself. Learn about the different identities and what they mean. This will help you understand your child’s experience and how you can support them. There are many resources available online and in your community that can help you learn more.

4. Respect their privacy

Your child may not be ready to share their identity with everyone, so it’s important to respect their privacy. Don’t share their news with anyone without their permission. This is their story to tell, and they should be the one to decide who knows.

5. Ask questions

If you’re unsure about something, it’s okay to ask questions. Your child may be able to provide you with more information about their identity and what it means. Just make sure you’re asking questions in a respectful and non-judgmental way.

6. Don’t make assumptions

Just because your child has come out as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender, it doesn’t mean they’re going to change in other ways. Don’t make assumptions about their interests, hobbies, or personality. Your child is still the same person they’ve always been, they’ve just shared a part of themselves with you.

7. Seek support

It’s important to seek support for yourself as well. This can be a difficult time for you as a parent, and you may need someone to talk to. There are many support groups and resources available for parents of LGBTQ+ children. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help.

In conclusion, when your child comes out to you, it’s important to listen without judgment, show your support, educate yourself, respect their privacy, ask questions, avoid making assumptions, and seek support for yourself. Remember that your child is still the same person they’ve always been, and they need your love and support now more than ever.