At the very mention of LGBTQ+ some may be getting a little nervous and uncomfortable. Others may be literally disgusted. And then there are those that are relieved and excited.
The word LGBTQ+ brings out a lot of emotions. It's a heavy topic. And to include it in a children's activities...
So let's talk about the LGBTQ+ Community in hopes that those who are nervous, uncomfortable, or disgusted can feel better about our site and products.
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Let's Talk About the LGBTQ+ Community
First, for those that are wondering, my husband and I are very happily straight living in a monogamous relationship. We attend church as often as we are able. Our children are involved in our local church youth group.
Why Do We Include the LGBTQ+ Community in our Products?
The LGBTQ+ resources at Every Star Is Different are designed to answer those questions when the time is right.
.jpg "Montessori-inspired Relationships Printable Pack")
Montessori-inspired Relationships Printable Pack
Children with parents in the LGBTQ+ community may be in your classroom.
Classmates wonder why a child has two moms or two dads or why children with a transgender or nonbinary parent dresses and looks the way they do.
We wanted to create a resources for when questions about the LGBTQ+ community come up.
In our home we teach love for all. Just because someone chooses to live differently than we do, does not mean we don't extend the utmost kindness towards them just like everyone else.
Education eliminates fear and invites love and understanding which then turns into peace, which is what Maria Montessori was all about.
The LGBTQ+ community is a minority. They are being discriminated against. They are being excluded by many. A bundle that teaches about diversity and inclusion would not be complete without including them.
How is the LGBTQ Community Depicted in the our products?
All LGBTQ+ community members depicted in true to life images are adults with the exception of one transgender or nonbinary teenager whom you can opt to remove from activities. Other options are available.
All descriptions of the LGBTQ+ community members are also 100% kid friendly and appropriate for all audiences.
There is no mention of the word "sex."
When describing sexual preference only the words "romantic relationship" are used.
In the Montessori-inspired Family Printable Pack the phrases "gave birth to" and "contributed to the creation of" are the go to terms.
Definitions of the LGBTQ+ community members have been approved by members of the LGBTQ+ and heterosexual communities.
I spent hours and hours working with my friend Ashley from Diamond Montessori analyzing every word of every definition to make sure the were accurate and appropriate for young children.
This is a safe resource for children.
I don't want to use the LGBTQ+ resources in your products. Are they still worth purchasing?
In every activity where the LGBTQ+ community is represented (with the exception of the LGBTQ+ nomenclature, description and flag cards), there are other card options of heterosexual couples and families.
You do not have to print or use any LGBTQ+ resources.
The price of products is decided with the notion that many will never use all contents. Every child, family, and classroom is different.
You are not wasting money if you choose not to use LGBTQ+ resources included in printables.
I hope this clears up any questions and concerns you may have about fantastic resources related to the LGBTQ+ Community.
Montessori-inspired Family Printable Pack
If you have more questions and concerns, please don't hesitate to e-mail me in a kind and respectful manner. I am more than happy to answer.
There is nothing to be afraid of in regards to our products. The needs of EVERY student can be met through our content. You, the caregiver, parent, or teacher decide what you use and how you use it.
The most important thing is that no child is left out understanding relationships around them.
For those who are looking for more Montessori activities and printables that include all, be sure to subscribe to our FREE newsletter by clicking the link below.
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This looks like a very comprehensive and well thought out resource. Thank you for the time you put into preparing it.
ReplyDeleteMay I suggest including Asexual and Aromantic? They are those who don't feel sexual or romantic desires.
ReplyDeleteAppreciate this. I've been aware of building frustration and thoughts within myself about the LGBTQ+ community due to others telling my younger brother he's gay when he's not. He's straight, he's just also autistic, so he doesn't have the social skills needed to create a solid and deep romantic relationship. He's incredibly bright and charming and handsome, so he's been surrounded by women and enjoyed their company his whole life. He just can't handle the relational complexities, and the women he's been most interested in can't handle his idiosyncrasies. I appreciate this reminder, which is helping me re-ground myself in healthy ways to think about others who choose to live differently than me. I knew I needed to do so but hadn't had the bandwidth to do so. Thanks again.
ReplyDelete