S6 E38: Understanding and Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth with Jennifer Boudrye

In this episode, we a joined by Jennifer Boudrye, a dedicated advocate and parent coach specializing in helping parents navigate their feelings and misunderstandings about LGBTQ+ identity. Jennifer shares her personal journey, highlighting her experiences as a parent and step-parent to LGBTQ+ children, and delves into the unique challenges and surprises that parents face when their children come out. She emphasizes the importance of support, acceptance, and love, and offers practical advice for parents to become allies to their LGBTQ+ children.   Jennifer discusses the internalized biases that all individuals carry, the impact of societal norms on parenting, and the steps parents can go through from shock to acceptance and pride. She introduces her CARE model (Compassion, Awareness, Respect, Empathy) aimed at helping parents support their children's authentic selves while ensuring their safety and happiness. Furthermore, Jennifer touches on the influence of religion, the exploration of identity among adolescents, and the importance of believing and supporting your child in the moment they come out.   Whether you're a parent seeking guidance on how to support your LGBTQ+ child or someone interested in the complexities of parenting and identity, this episode provides valuable insights and strategies to foster understanding and empathy. Join us as we explore how to embrace and celebrate the identities of our children, making our homes and hearts inclusive and supportive spaces.   Find Jennifer Boudrye and her resources at www.parentwithcare.com and learn about LGBTQ+ affirming camps at www.queercampfair.com. Tune in to "Imperfect Momine" for more conversations that inspire, educate, and empower parents on their journey.   Jennifer Boudrye, the driving force behind Parent With Care LLC, empowers allies and parents of LGBTQ+ youth through personalized coaching, workshops, and engaging presentations. Drawing from her rich experiences as a parent of three adult children, one proudly identifying as bisexual, and a bonus parent to a transgender man, Jennifer seamlessly blends professional expertise with personal insight as a certified parent coach holding master's degrees in library science and educational leadership.   Connect with Jennifer: IG & FB @parentwithcare www.momsupportcorner.com Connect with me: linktr.ee/momsupportcorner