Resilience is an essential quality for every individual to have, especially children who may face challenges due to factors such as socioeconomic status, race, gender identity, or disability. For queer parents, teaching resilience becomes even more crucial because they navigate an often hostile environment where their parenting choices are questioned and scrutinized.
There are ways they can foster this trait in their children through positive modeling, role modeling, open communication, and providing opportunities for growth.
Positive modeling involves setting an example of how to handle adversity, stay strong, and bounce back from setbacks. Queer parents can show their children that they too have experienced discrimination or rejection, but have overcome it. They should also discuss these experiences with their kids, highlighting lessons learned and strategies used. Role models are important for all children, but particularly for those whose family dynamics may differ from the norm. By exposing them to diverse role models who embody strength and perseverance, queer parents help build self-esteem and confidence. Open communication includes talking about the world's prejudices and helping children develop coping skills. This means discussing negative stereotypes, educating them about LGBTQ+ history and activism, and encouraging them to stand up for themselves when necessary.
Providing growth opportunities helps children learn resilience by facing new challenges and learning to adapt. This could involve signing them up for sports teams, joining clubs, or participating in community service projects.
Despite a society that questions their legitimacy, queer parents can teach their children valuable life skills such as resilience by using positive modeling, role modeling, open communication, and providing growth opportunities. With the right support and guidance, their children will be better equipped to navigate the ups and downs of life and become strong, independent individuals.
How do queer parents teach resilience in a world that questions their legitimacy?
Despite facing discrimination, marginalization, and stigma due to their sexual orientation and gender identity, queer parents often possess remarkable strength and resilience that they can pass on to their children. In fact, research has found that queer parents tend to provide their offspring with higher levels of support than heterosexual parents, which can help them develop stronger coping mechanisms.