Parenting During Pride Month

“Look, Mommy! A rainbow flag!”

My 4-year-old daughter excitedly pointed at a suburban front porch as we drove home from a luncheon with friends. I shifted uncomfortably in the passenger seat and paused before responding to my precocious preschooler who has a penchant for princesses, unicorns, and rainbows. On one hand, it would be easy to say, “Yes, that is a rainbow flag,” and move on with the day. However, I could not, in good conscience, sidestep her comment. To ignore my child’s statement of excitement over this brightly colored banner would be to ignore an issue that subverts our family’s beliefs, principles, and basic values.

As parents, we are faced with difficult conversations about sensitive topics. One such topic is homosexuality. How do we talk to our children about it? How do we teach them to love and respect all people while also upholding our own beliefs and values?

Here are five practical suggestions:

1. Read Genesis 1-3 as a Family

The biblical accounts of creation and the fall into sin not only reveal God’s design for marriage and families, but are also reminders of how that order is subverted. Additionally, it is important to remember that all sin is sin in God’s eyes, whether it is theft, homosexuality, dishonesty, gossip, etc. Speaking the truth about God’s created order must be done in love.

2. Read Genesis 6-9

The biblical account of Noah, the flood, and God’s ensuing covenant reminds us of God’s promises, particularly His guarantee to protect His own in the ark of faith through Christ Jesus. Furthermore, this passage presents the perfect opportunity to discuss the true origin of the rainbow.

3. Invest in Quality Literature

Invest in quality literature to teach your children about human sexuality in an age-appropriate fashion. I recommend Concordia Publishing House’s Learning About Sex series. While I have only utilized the first book in the series, Why Boys and Girls are Different, I do know that the series is well-written, builds upon itself gradually, and is straightforward, allowing parents to use it with discretion according to their children’s needs. I would also recommend reading series such as this on your own before reading them with your child in order to anticipate their questions ahead of time.

4. Rejoice in Your Children’s Identities Beyond Their Sexuality

Everyone has many stations in life to which they are called, whether that be a brother, sister, son, daughter, student, friend, cousin, neighbor, etc. Recognize unique attributes in your children and discuss the importance of these unique vocations with them.

5. Control How You Address These Things

Remind yourself that you cannot control every single item or agenda your children are exposed to, but you can control how you address these things. As parents, we of course must be discerning and proactive about the movies, books, TV shows, and social media accessible to our children. However, there is no way to completely shield them from the brokenness of the world. The best thing we can do is continue in our calling as parents — leading our children by example, guiding them in the truth, and equipping them to remain steadfast.

It is imperative for families to have a plan of action, especially during pride month. By following these practical suggestions, we can teach our children to love and respect all people while upholding our own beliefs and values.

“Yes, that is,” I replied. “But we don’t support that rainbow flag.” I anticipated her follow-up question: “Why not?”

Difficult conversations are inevitable, but as parents, it is our responsibility to guide our children in the truth. Let us do so with love and compassion.

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