Compiled by Museum staff who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, what follows is a series of resources for educating parents and families on LGBTQ+ issues and how to talk to young children about identity. This list is not meant to be exhaustive. Instead, think of this as a place to get started, and prompts to start a conversation on these topics with your child.
Educational Resources
Glossary of Terms: The Human Rights Campaign has compiled this glossary of terms to help people better understand identities and issues in the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond.
CDC LGBTQ Youth Resources: On this page, find resources from the CDC, other government agencies, and community organizations for LGBT youth, their friends, educators, parents, and family members to support positive environments.
It Gets Better Project: A nonprofit organization with a mission to uplift, empower, and connect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth around the globe.
Sesame Street in Communities: Resources and activities on different kinds of families for caregivers to share with their young children.
Local Resources:
Attic Youth Center: Locally based resource that focuses on providing a sense of belonging, connection and understanding for youth in the LGBTQ community.
William Way Center: Locally-based resource that provides a space and support for adults from the LGBTQ community.
Philadelphia-Based Support for LGBTQIA Youth: More information about local support for LGBTQIA youth.
Books for Parents:
Parenting Your LGBTQ+ Teen: A Guide to Supporting, Empowering, and Connecting with Your Child
LGBTQ+ Identities in Books & Media
Sometimes, it can be hard to know where or how to start a conversation. A book, TV show, or movie can serve as a great jumping off point to talk with young children about these topics.
Children’s Books
- One by Kathryn Otoshi
- Not Quite Narwhal by Jessie Sima
- The Hips on the Drag Queen by Lil Miss Hot Mess
- The Prince and The Knight by Daniel Haack
- Stella Brings the Family by Miriam B. Schiffer
- Julian Is A Mermaid by Jessica Love
- Julian at the Wedding by Jessica Love
- Stella Brings the Family by Miriam B. Schiffer
- When Aidan Became a Brother by Kyle Lukoff
- Jacob’s New Dress by Sarah Hoffman
- Annie’s Plaid Shirt by Stacy B. Davids
- They She He Me: Free to Be! by Maya Christina Gonzalez
- Neither by Airlie Anderson
- It Feels Good to Be Yourself: A Book About Gender Identity by Theresa Thorn
- Introducing Teddy: A Gentle Story About Gender and Friendship by Jessica Walton
- Milo Imagines the World by Matt de la Peña
- Pinks Is For Boys by Robb Perlman
- Be Amazing by Desmond Is Amazing
- Rainbow: A First Book of Pride by Michael Genhart PhD
Movies and Television
Turning Red (2022): Suitable for all ages, this Pixar film includes representation of queer characters, and is a kid-friendly exploration of navigating trauma, with a strong theme of finding your chosen family and supporting your friends through change.
In a Heartbeat (2017): Suitable for all ages, this Pixar short film depicts a boy who has his first crush on another boy and how he navigates those feelings.
Steven Universe (2013-2020): Show creator Rebecca Sugar made history as the first nonbinary person to have their own show at Cartoon Network. Steven Universe features queer and trans representation and has themes that focus on standing up for yourself and creating your chosen family. Suitable for all ages with parental guidance (some depictions of fighting).
Sailor Moon Crystal (2014): This American reboot of the classic Japanese manga is great for kids who are already fans of anime and Japanese media. Canon queer superhero representation. Suitable for all ages with parental guidance (some depictions of fighting).