Hello, fellow parents and caregivers! As a feminist, I believe in promoting respect and equality for all individuals and families, and using LGBTQ-inclusive parenting terms plays a crucial role in shaping these beliefs and attitudes.
Studies show that children as young as two years old pick up gender biases and expectations from the language they hear. This reinforces harmful gender stereotypes and perpetuates a lack of respect for diverse families.
Inclusive Terms and their Meanings
It’s important to remember that pregnancy and parenthood can look different for every individual. While people typically associate pregnancy and childbirth with women, trans men and other gender-nonconforming individuals can also become pregnant and give birth.
You can use these LGBTQ-inclusive terms when referring to parents:
- Chestfeeding or Nursing – Although all people technically have breast tissue, the term “breast” has carried a cultural association with women. Because of that, it can make some people feel gender dysphoria.
- Birthing parent – Similarly, the use of the term “birthing parent” instead of “mother” recognizes that not all people who give birth identify as female. It also acknowledges that there are other ways to become a parent, such as through adoption or surrogacy, and that not all families have one parent of each gender.
- Non-birthing parent – Instead of “father” which assumes the non-birthing parent is male.
- Pregnancy or Pregnant person – Instead of “expecting mother” which assumes the person who is pregnant is female.
Note: It’s important to respect the terminology preferred by each individual and family and use LGBTQ-inclusive parenting terms that feel authentic and true to their experiences.
Create a More Equitable World
Using LGBTQ-inclusive parenting terms is a small but powerful way to show respect for all parents. Let’s create a more accepting and equitable world for all children. Do you have any inclusive terms to add? Contact me here! Let’s make a difference and promote inclusive parenting language.
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