![]() But we can also dismantle ways of thinking that reinforce the gender dichotomy and heteronormativity, and we must create safe spaces for children to explore their identities and empathize with those who are different from them. One of our jobs as educators is to welcome students’ perspectives into the classroom. But it’s clear from conversations like the one I had with Parker that children come into our classrooms with a wealth of knowledge. ![]() We project our discomfort on them, assuming that discussing sexuality, biological sex, or gender is inappropriate for young students. We adults often think of sexuality and gender as things that are out of reach for students-especially our youngest ones. In these few minutes, it seemed as though my heart was broken and put back together all at once. “Well, I just don’t like when people make fun of you. Sometimes when things are different, they seem a little weird,” I replied. “Because I have a boyfriend,” I finally exhaled. This first grader had questions-and would demand answers. It was clear I wasn’t getting out of this one. “Why?” she asked again, smiling up at me. “I don’t,” I replied succinctly, hoping to avoid the topic altogether. ![]() “Paul, do you have a girlfriend?” Parker asked me.
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