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Gender identity at school.
It may happen that your child tells you that a classmate feels more like a boy than a girl, or the other way around. Or that someone does not clearly fit into the box 'boy' or 'girl'. What does it actually mean to use a different name or pronouns? And how can you help your child deal with this?
There is someone transgender in my child’s class
Your child says that a classmate prefers to be a boy rather than a girl, or the other way around. Or a classmate is not clearly a boy or a girl. Often this is normal for children and they do not have trouble adapting.
Maybe your child’s classmate says that another name or different pronouns (for example he/him, she/her, or they/theirs) feel better. It is okay if you need some time to get used to this. Keep listening well and try to follow the wishes of your child’s classmate. It means a lot to someone if you make an effort.
Does your child have questions about gender? Talk about it together. Do you feel you do not know enough about gender? Are you looking for tips or extra information? The Transgender network teaches you more about how to handle transgender children at school. Or read more in the Gender workbook for schools. During Purple Friday attention is given to diversity at school.
And how does it work in the classroom and gym?
Is there a child in the class and gym who is transgender? This can take some getting used to. Probably the school, the parents, and the child are also looking for what feels good. There are no fixed rules.
A solution could be a separate toilet or changing room, but this might make the child feel left out. The school will try to find a suitable solution in consultation with the parents and the child.
If you do not like the solution found, talk to your child’s teacher. If you do not agree, contact Ouders & Onderwijs.
Spring tingles week: what does your child learn?
The lessons in the spring tingles week match the age of the children in the class. Younger children discover topics like friendship, family, and feelings. Older students learn more, for example about how the body changes and how to set boundaries. Want to know exactly what is discussed? Ask the teacher.
The role of parents
You can also do a lot at home as a parent. By having open talks about relationships and sexuality, your child learns to handle your values and beliefs. Often the school shares the lesson content beforehand, so you as a parent can connect to it.
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