Working With Children from LGBT FamiliesJanuary 14, 2008 |
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 Children whose parents are gay often are singled out for ridicule and other forms of abuse by their young peers. To address this problem, the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center is offering training for educators and other child advocacy professionals on how to intervene when children get bullied because of their parents' sexual orientation. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children who grow up with one or two gay and/or lesbian parents tend to fare as well as children with heterosexual parents in emotional, cognitive, social and sexual functioning. What is different for these children is that once their peers find out their parents are gay and/or lesbian, they often become targets for bullying. A number of studies have indicated that from the children's perspective, the only negative impact of having same-sex parents is other peoples' reactions to their family. The Gay & Lesbian Center's Family Services Program is trying to combat such harassment. "We provide diversity trainings so providers can gain the tools to help lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) families feel safe and secure when accessing services," said Arielle Rosen, project director for the Family Services Program. The Family Services Program has reached more than 600 teachers, counselors and other practitioners. Trainings are free and on-site for providers who work with children under 5-years-old. Trainers cover topics such as terminology, family creation, the effects of anti-LGBT discrimination, and practical strategies and applications. Trainings also include small group exercises, video clips, and large group discussions. |
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