genderspectrum.org
Gender Spectrum helps to create gender sensitive and inclusive environments for all children and teens.
LGBTQ Definitions for Adults, with link to definitions for kids
Many people refrain from talking about sexual orientation and gender identity because they are unsure of what to say or are afraid of saying the wrong thing. After all, language around gender, sexual orientation and gender identity and expression can shift rapidly. This glossary was written to give adults the words and meanings to help make […]
George by Alex Gino (ages 8 to 12)
When everyone looks at George, they see a boy, but George knows she is a girl. When her grade is going to perform Charlotte’s Web for the school play, George really wants the part of Charlotte. Her teacher won’t let her try out for it, though, because she says George is a boy and needs […]
The Other Boy by M.G Hennessey (ages 8 to 12)
Shane Wood is just a baseball playing, video game loving, and comic book drawing 12-year-old boy. But he is also living a stealth life as a transgender boy. No one at the school knows Shane was assigned female at birth and lived a life as a female for years—not even his best friend. But a […]
Introducing Teddy: A Gentle Story About Gender and Friendship by Jessica Walton (ages 3 to 6)
Errol and his teddy bear, Thomas, are best friends. They do everything together. But then Errol notices that Thomas is sad. Thomas explains that she has always been a girl teddy, not a boy teddy, and Thomas wants her name to be Tilly. Errol loves his friend unconditionally and doesn’t care if his teddy is […]
Pink Is For Boys by Robb Pearlman (ages 4 to 7)
Who Are You? The Kid’s Guide to Gender Identity by Brook Pessin-Whedbee (ages 5 and up)
An exploration of gender identities and expressions, with a fun colored gender wheel at the back that kids love to manipulate.
I Am Jazz by Jessica Herthel and Jazz Jennings (ages 4-8)
Written with help from public figure and transgender teenager, Jazz Jennings, this gentle and easy to follow storybook explains what it means to be transgender. Jazz explains that she has a “girl brain, but a boy body.” She knew from a young age that she was a girl, even though the world saw her as […]
Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love (ages 3 to 8)
Beautiful book about a young boy with mermaid aspirations. Love’s gorgeous illustrations provide endless opportunities for discussion and discovery. Wonderful “point of entry” text to examine gender roles and expectations with young children.
“How Do I Talk To My Preschooler About Identity?,” Planned Parenthood
Tips from PP on how to think about, prepare for, and facilitate conversations around gender with small children. Also provides thought-provoking opportunities for self-reflection on gendered attitudes.