Does your child identify as LGBTQ+? Is your child questioning sexual orientation or gender identity? Is your child’s gender expression creative or non-conforming? Understanding your child’s LGBTQ+ identity and needs can help you support your child. This page will acquaint you with some of the resources available for families of children who identify as LGBTQ+. In each case, we've taken the top four resources recommended by local experts in the field to help you get started. Additional resources may be found by using the View More links that follow each section. Just Getting Started?Families who are just beginning to explore an LGBTQ+ identity with their child may benefit from Connecting for Kids' Empower the Parent program. This step-by-step resource shows you how to get started finding help for your child. We also encourage residents of the Connecting for Kids service area to contact us for personalized support. | You're Not AloneIn addition to the resources on this page, CFK offers opportunities to learn and connect with other families. To Connect:
To Learn More:
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The recommendations provided on the remainder of this page were made by Colors+ Youth Center and LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland. For more information on these organizations, please see their entries in the Service Provider Directory.
Recommended OrganizationsThe following organizations have been identified as places to get more information and support: |
Colors+ Youth Center1-330-529-5667 * Featured * | LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland1-216-651-5428 * Featured * | Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)1-216-220-7030 |
In addition to the recommended organizations above, there are other organizations supporting families with children who identify as LGBTQ+.
Recommended Books
Learn more from these recommended books: |
Straight Parents, Gay Children | The Transgender Child: A Handbook for Families and Professionals | This Is a Book for Parents of Gay Kids: A Question & Answer Guide to Everyday Life D. Owens-Reid and K. Russo | Unconditional: A Guide to Loving and Supporting Your LGBTQ Child T. Eriksen |
Recommended Websites, Downloads and Groups
Families may benefit from the following websites, downloads and groups: |
Breathe Learn Act e-care package for parents & loved ones of trans youth | Coming Out with Care e-care package with advice, essays and resources to guide families through the process of a child coming out | Supportive Families, Healthy Children: Helping Families with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Children eBook | The Trevor Project |