As kids enter school, they are exposed to media and their circle of friends grows larger. If you haven’t had the conversation it’s time to start thinking about it. This is when they start hearing derogatory comments from peers or television and without you they will start to draw their own conclusions. Whatever you do, don’t avoid the topic. Kids notice what you don’t talk about as much as they notice what you do.

Here’s an example of what you might say: “Sometimes men love men and women love women just like me and your (mom, dad).  In some states two dads can get married, or two moms can get married.  Your Uncle Robert and Uncle James love each other very much.  You remember when we went to their party?  That was their wedding"

Think about how you want to handle what you hear. Or how you will address homophobic or discriminatory comments. Look for chances to correct these kinds of comments. Some ideas for ways to open up the discussion with your child could be:.

• Keeping relevant, age appropriate books in your library and reading them together.
• Taking your child to events that celebrate same sex relationships. Many GLBT Pride Marches have family friendly activities.  Call ahead to get more information.

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