“Trans Children in Today’s Schools” by Aidan Key is an essential guide for educators, parents, and anyone navigating the challenges of gender-diverse student bodies. Authored by a seasoned diversity educator, this book goes beyond the what and why of gender diversity, answering the crucial question of how to create inclusive, safe, and flexible environments for gender-diverse young people. Key provides practical strategies, learning points, and real-world discussion tools. It emphasizes the importance of accurate information and collaboration to ensure optimal learning environments free from discrimination.

As a school social worker in an elementary school, this book was very helpful regarding ways I can support trans children in school. I appreciated how the book was divided by various topics and how the author used real life examples to further educate the readers.

4.5 stars rounded up

An excellent resource for parents and educators, Trans Children in Today's Schools methodically goes over the basics of gender identity, how it applies to children, how it is distinct from discussions of sexuality or sexual orientation, current research on gender identity in youth and best practices, concerns that arise, and the nuts and bolts of creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all children at school (and somewhat at home, though that's less of the emphasis). The author is thoughtful and inclusive of people from a variety of backgrounds and beliefs who all want the best for their kids.

I went into this as a parent to a gender-diverse child rather than as an educator, so keep that in mind with my review. There was a lot in this book that I found helpful and illuminating, some parts were less interesting but would be really useful for people working in or running a school. It can be a little repetitive at times, but again I think it has to do with the intended audience combined with the understanding that some readers might skip to specific chapters and not get information when it's delivered earlier in the book. The information is delivered with empathy and care, and often includes examples of language that can be used in scenarios from talking with teachers, talking with children of different ages, talking with parents etc. I would love to see this book read widely because I think there is so much misinformation and lack of understanding when it comes to trans and gender-diverse kids. It's a hot button issue that gets politicized, but when it comes down to it most of us just want the best for our kids and want them to be safe and not at higher risk for things like suicide. If you are a parent, an educator, someone who works or volunteers in schools, or are just curious to have a better understanding of this I would recommend reading the book. The audio narration makes it very accessible. I received an audio copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.

This book brings gender politics to the forefront. It become incredibly clear that the only allowed gender identity is that of the heterosexual male (don't think it's easy being anything else). I asked for this book after an educator in my district, generally an accepting space, outed an elementary trans student to thousands of people. We need to make sure all children, regardless of what makes them vulnerable (being a child makes you vulnerable-as being human does with the extra burden of being unable to make your own legal decisions.

I have recommended that others read this book and others on the subject. We all love our children. You can only escape that, for most, in the most extreme of people.

If you are new to this "aha moment" please read this or anything else to guide you.