I have so many questions, but not sure how to ask. What are your thoughts on people that have children and coming out to their children even if they are teenagers?

Question:

I have so many questions, but not sure how to ask. What are your thoughts on people that have children and coming out to their children even if they are teenagers?

Answer:

Please feel free to ask anything you want. We are very open people, especially if it can help you understand what some gay people have to go through in their lives. The best way to ask is to just do it. We are rarely offended. 

Regarding parents coming out to their teenagers, We think they most definitely should come out to them. Teens are very perceptive and hormonal. If you hide something from them, especially as something as big as that, it is disrespectful to both the teen and the parent. Teens are more likely to get angry about their parents not telling them they are gay and then later finding out by some other means. It will make the teen think that their parent is ashamed of their gay lifestyle. That is not a good precedent to set.

We have a very good friend who kept waiting and waiting to tell her daughter. Her daughter even asked her if she was gay and she said no. She was afraid of how her daughter would be treated at school and with her friends. Plus it is scary and nerve racking to do something that big. With good communication that can all be avoided. If people really are that hateful, then you don't want them in your children's lives anyway. She finally told her and her daughter was a hurt that she kept it from her for so long. They worked it out in the long run but being open and honest is they best way to go. Besides this can also be a great opportunity to build a bigger trusting relationship with children.  It makes them feel special, loved and trusted that you would share something so big and precious with them.