Explaining Gender and Sexuality to Kids

What is Gender?

Gender is a way of describing different types of people based on how they identify. Some people feel like they belong in one category or another, while some people don’t feel like they fit in any category at all. It’s important to remember that there is no wrong way to identify - everyone has their own unique identity that makes them special.

To help make this concept easier for kids to understand, try using analogies like this one: Just like there are different kinds of animals – cats, dogs, birds - there are also different kinds of people – male, female, non-binary. Some animals don't fit into the categories either - like snails who are both male and female! So just like there are many different types of animals out there, there are also many different types of people too.

What is Sexuality?

Sexuality refers to someone's emotional, physical, and sexual attraction toward another person (or persons). A person's sexuality can change over time - what you're attracted to now may not be what you're attracted to in the future. Again, it's important to emphasize that this is perfectly okay! Everyone has a unique journey when it comes to understanding their sexuality.    

You can use analogies here too - just like some animals prefer certain foods over others (cats love fish; dogs love meat; birds love seeds), everyone has their preferences when it comes to relationships too! Some people may prefer relationships with someone of the same gender as them; some may prefer relationships with someone of a different gender than them; some may not be sure yet or not want a relationship at all! All these options are perfectly normal and valid.

Talking about sexuality with kids doesn't have to be intimidating—you just need a few good tools up your sleeve! Keeping things simple by using analogies and concrete examples is a great way to begin exploring complex topics such as gender identity and sexuality. By focusing on respect over anything else when discussing these issues, parents can help create an environment where their children feel safe exploring their own identities without judgment or fear.