a thread on pronouns:

earlier tweeted this screenshot of an email. some folx asked about how to ask kids about pronouns.

here’s what I think:

1. don’t ask kids for their pronouns publicly on the first day (especially if you have not co-created a safe learning space).

(1/8) https://twitter.com/sheathescholar/status/1305198645013348352

2. When you introduce yourself to your kids, model using your pronouns publicly. It helps if you can explain why you’re doing it (particularly if you’re a cis person).

(2/8)

3. Ask your kids for pronouns in a low-stakes way - like a survey.

when you ask, i suggest asking:

a. preferred name + what name you should use when talking to others
b. pronouns + what pronouns they want you to use when talking to others

(3/8)

4. a lot trans/GNC kids may have to use their deadnames and/or other pronouns at home or in other spaces so it’s important to ask about when to use the pronouns (I’d suggest making those questions open response)

(4/8)

5. understand that gender and sexuality are fluid and that kids’ pronouns and/or how they identify may change throughout the year. embrace the fluidity, don’t joke about it.

(5/8)

6. normalize asking your colleagues for their pronouns and using them. normalize using your pronouns in adult settings. normalize speaking up and using students’ pronouns in faculty spaces. be an advocate when students aren’t in the room.

(6/8)

7. love kids hard, particularly your LGBTQ+ kids this year. they need it.

(7/8)

8. follow these dope LGBTQ+ educators I love: @CandyCornball @lizziefortin @teachntransform @CodyMillerELA @AkieaG @teachLTL @Jess5th @BLoveSoulPower @PorshaOlayiwola @jthompedu @PresidentPat @biologywithjane

(8/8)

so after tweeting this thread, I went into the living room and my wife showed me her “advisory orientation” slide deck. her first slide read “introduce yourself: name/pronouns” and we had a discussion about it. here’s where we landed on the first day/public declaration...

(9/8)

she ( @biologywithjane) is the former Pride Alliance advisor and known for her advocacy. her advisory is full of kids she’s had before which makes this first day a bit different. even so, I know some dope educators who do pronouns the first day (like @teachntransform).

(10/8)

That being said - if you choose to do pronouns the first day with new kids in a new learning space, PLEASE be prepared to ensure the space is safe for kids. be prepared to set the tone. be prepared to answer questions + give resources. be prepared to continue the convo.

(11/8)

also @AkieaG has this dope video for #wokekindergarten they made about pronouns if you’re trying to figure out how to explain it to youngins.