Gender Fluid Panel: What Does it Mean to Be Non-Binary?

Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen

Non-binary individuals have always existed, but as society progresses and discussions become more open, we are seeing more and more people identify with this. In this week’s episode, Heather put together a panel to discuss the concept of non-binary, why its important that parents understand how their kids perceive gender, allowing children to explore their own gender and so much more.

Do not miss these highlights:

03:13 – The concept of non-binary and gender fluidity.

06:53 - Gender identity and the terms used can very much mean something different to every person you ask.

12:40 – It’s really important for anybody to be able to go to their child, to their spouse, to whoever it may be, and talk to them and understand not only your perspective,but also their perspectives.

20:37 – If you child comes to you and says “this is how I identify”, ask them what that means to them so that you can understand where they are coming from.

30:30 – Even with the LGBTQ community there are certain expectations, even when trying to find yourself, which can make you feel like an imposter within that community.

33:21 - By helping others understand your own process of coming to terms with who you are, how you identify in that moment will hopefully help create that supportive, healthy environment for you to continue to develop and grow.

37:31 – The role of a parent when a child comes out does not necessarily mean they need to immediately understand but instead give support.

49:03 – Give your children the ability to explore and understand the world around them.

1:00:03 – Having the conversation with your children about gender identity is not going to change their own identity or orientation, those have already been established by the age of 6. But you are opening them up to understand other people.

About the Panel:

Autumn Graham - I am Autumn, a non-binary teen who loves to discuss and have a deeper understanding of things, such as the topic of this podcast. I am a naturally curious individual who loves to learn about new things and see them from another perspective.

Kate Versage - Kate is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community who specializes in helping other LGBTQ+ individuals and their families process their coming out experiences, navigate their identities, and provide support and resources for their journey through life coaching. Kate has a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling and Expressive Arts Therapy and devotes her free time helping to educate communities, businesses and organizations on the issues and concerns that face the LGBTQ+ community.

Kate is also a proud mama, Dj and Drag King.

Grace (Gray) Hester - My name is Grace, I also use the name Grayson. My pronouns are she/they/he but I’m comfortable with any. I am 17 years old, and a junior in high school. Acting is my passion, and like most teens, I like hanging out with my friends.

As Mentioned in Episode:

Become part of the Rainbow Stories, Compilation Book for Parents, Teens and Allies, at https://www.katherineburrowscreative.com/rainbow-stories-compilation-book

Connect with Heather:

Solutions listed on her website: https://chrysalismama.com

For the Language of LGBTQIA+ E-book, visit: https://learnwith.chrysalismama.com/book

Digital Coming Out Course for Parents - Text Ally to 55444 to get Heather's "My kid just came out and I'm freaking out!" Toolkit!

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