Introducing rainbow identities and topics in an age-appropriate way

Firstly, thank you for your support in bringing rainbow identities into your school and classroom! It will make a huge difference to rainbow tamariki (or those with rainbow parents and whānau) to see themselves reflected in the world, and know they are OK, and can thrive, shine and grow freely.

Some young kids already know they are transgender, or nonbinary, or just ‘different somehow’. Others will grow into it later. Either way, little conversations let them know they are OK.

Sometimes people think that we at InsideOUT Kōaro are trying to label kids and make them grow up too fast. You might face the same objection. However, what we want is for kids to be able to play, try out wearing a skirt or sparkles or a silly santa beard if that calls to them, try out ‘he’ or ‘she’ if they want, and in time grow healthily into whichever adult they are.

Five year old Sam might grow into being Samuel or Samantha, and might fall in love with a woman or a man or neither. Either way, we want Sam to thrive, free of bullying or shame, and able to make their own choices. Thank you for gently introducing all kids to the fact that rainbow people exist, and are all good.

There is no pressure to cover all rainbow topics and identities in one go! But if your school community does include trans, non-binary or gender non-conforming students, some positive, strengths-based kōrero can be a good way to broaden tamariki understanding and acceptance.

And if you hear any, we like these suggested responses to gender-based questions or put-downs.

You can refer to the Ministry of Education guidelines to frame your language and develop confidence talking and teaching diversity. You will know your tamariki best and what will suit their needs. The TKI Inclusive Schools webpage is a great resource.