Books That Really Help With Supporting Trans Kids And Teens
Raising a trans child or trans teen may come with unique challenges that require specialised support, openness, and empathy. This page offers guidance and resources to help you create a safe, affirming environment where your child or teen can thrive in their identity. Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or looking for deeper understanding, you’ll find tools here to support you and your family.
My child has just told me that they might be trans - what do I do?
Hearing your trans child express their identity for the first time can be emotional. As therapist Kelly Storck (LCSW) shares in "My Child Told Me…", there are two powerful things to remember:
- You’ve raised a child with self-love and bravery – one who dares to be authentically themselves.
- They are honouring your relationship by trusting you with this truth.
Pause and celebrate that moment of trust. Let your child know how proud and grateful you are that they shared this part of themselves with you.
Resources for parents of trans children
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My Child Told Me They’re Trans, What Should I Do
Buy nowGathering together practical advice and personal experiences from a range of parents, activists and experts, this FAQ book provides answers to the most common questions you will have as a parent of a transgender child.
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Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Trans
Buy nowLeading activist and essayist Brynn Tannehill tells you everything you ever wanted to know about transgender issues but were afraid to ask.
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Helping Your Transgender Teen
Buy nowGoing through puberty and adolescence presents unwelcome changes for many transgender youth, and this book provides advice to parents of transgender teens to help them understand what their child is experiencing and feeling during this challenging time.
What support does my trans teen need?
Supporting a trans teen means creating a space where they feel safe, understood, and able to explore their identity. Every transgender teen is different, but here are some key areas where your support can make a big difference:
- Be a consistent, open presence – let your teen know you're there to listen, without judgment.
- Help navigate practical needs: dealing with gender dysphoria, making decisions about social or medical transition, managing mental health, and staying safe online.
- Follow their lead – let your teen guide you in what they need and when.
Resources for your trans teen
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Trans Teen Survival Guide
Buy nowFrank, friendly and funny, the Trans Teen Survival Guide will leave transgender and non-binary teens informed, empowered and armed with all the tips, confidence and practical advice they need to navigate life as a trans teen.
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The Awesome Autistic Guide for Trans Teens
Buy nowCalling all awesome autistic trans teens! Yenn Purkis and Sam Rose want you to live your best authentic life - and this handy book will show you how!
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Hell Yeah Self-Care!
Buy nowEmpowering, illuminating and written with authenticity and honesty throughout-this is a manual for everyone and will help you look after yourself on your path towards happiness and wellbeing.
How can I explore the concept of gender diversity with a young child?
Introducing gender diversity to young children - whether cisgender or transgender - fosters empathy, self-acceptance, and respect for others. It also lays the groundwork for inclusive parenting and raises gender-aware kids who feel empowered.
These conversations can help your trans child understand that they are not alone and that they are seen.
Resources for children about gender diversity
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Who Are You?
Buy nowThis brightly illustrated children's book provides a straightforward introduction to gender for anyone aged 5-8. Includes an interactive wheel, and guide for grown-ups!
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Me and My Dysphoria Monster
Buy nowA touching story discussing gender dysphoria with children, explaining what it is and how they and their families can deal with it.
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Are you a boy or are you a girl?
Buy nowThis brightly illustrated book will open a dialogue with children aged 3+ about gender diversity in a fun and creative way. Featuring a gender neutral protagonist, the book imparts an important message about identity and being who you want to be.
What are some positive role models for a young trans person?
Children and teens thrive when they can see transgender role models who reflect their own experience or broaden their world view. Whether in fiction or real-life, these figures help trans children and teens feel proud, capable, and connected to a wider community.
Resources featuring trans representation
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Gender Pioneers
Buy hereThis inspiring collection of illustrated portraits celebrates the lives of influential transgender, non-binary and intersex figures throughout history.
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My History, My Gender, Me
Buy hereGender diversity isn't a new thing! This beautifully illustrated guide takes children on a journey through the history of gender-nonconforming people who changed the world.
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Sylvia and Marsha Start a Revolution!
Buy hereThe story of Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson, the two transgender women of colour who helped kickstart the Stonewall Riots and dedicated their lives to fighting for LGBTQ+ equality.
We offer a diverse collection of books on gender identity, transgender experiences, and inclusive parenting.
Whether you're reading together or your child is exploring independently, these books can foster understanding, empowerment, and belonging.