By Annie Rosemurgy | Photography by Hillary Schave
The Madison area has many resources for kids who need support or want to learn about LGBTQ+ identities. Here are a few of the best:
- Trans/Nonbinary Youth Virtual Support group: All school-aged and teens are welcome. Contact Katie Rickert, MMSD LGBTQ+ district lead for Zoom link.
- GSAFE: Creating just, safe schools for LGBTQ+ youth. Read our online exclusive about GSAFE here. gsafewi.org
- Briarpatch Youth Services: Offers a weekly Zoom support group for LGTBQ+ youth ages 13-18. youthsos.org
- Trans Clothing Closet: Transitional wear available for transgender and nonbinary youth in the Madison area. transyouthclothingcloset@gmail.com
Inclusive Books
Here are some of the experts’ recommendations for great books and websites that can help families navigate LGBTQ+ topics and make kids feel comfortable.
- Elizabeth Gregg, licensed professional counselor at Golden Vibes Counseling Center: The Trevor Project, which is a national crisis support center for LGBTQ+ youth. thetrevorproject.org
- Katie Larsen-Klodd, social worker at Randall Elementary School: MMSD’s Welcoming Schools website.sites.google.com/madison.k12.wi.us/mmsd-welcoming-schools
- Amy Turkowski, first grade teacher at Franklin Elementary School: “Introducing Teddy: A Gentle Story About Gender and Friendship” by Jessica Walton.
- Dr. Britt Allen, pediatrician and co- medical director of UW’s PATH clinic: “What Makes a Baby” and “You Know Sex: Bodies, Gender, Puberty, and Other Things,” both by Cory Silverberg.
Click here for more advice and resources on parenting and LGBTQ+.