Supporting our Kids: Gender and Sexual Diversity

Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023
Time: 12:00 – 1:30 pm
Location: Zoom – A meeting link will be shared with you via email prior to the session start time.

This workshop is intended to be a safe space for parents and caregivers to ask questions and explore issues related to gender and sexuality. Whether your child identifies as genderqueer, trans, cis, nonbinary, or in another way and/or straight, lesbian, gay, bi, ace, queer or questioning – this workshop is for you. The workshop begins with a discussion of language relating to gender and sexuality and self-determination and affirmation in connection with gender expansive parenting and caring. Then we will explore questions asked by some parents and carers of young people. In advance of the workshop, you will have a chance to submit your questions and topics you’d like to discuss. How can we support and try to understand our kids? Let’s explore our questions together!

Co-sponsored by the Sexual and Gender Diversity Office and the Family Care Office.

Facilitators:

Ilana David, MSW, RSW (she/they)
Gender & Sexual Diversity Social Worker, TDSB
Ilana is a social worker with over 15 years experience working with children, youth and families in mental health, 2SLGBTQ+ community services and education settings. In her current role in the TDSB, Ilana provides a range of support and consultation services, with a focus on gender and sexual diversity and gender-based violence prevention.  Ilana facilitates groups for parents/caregivers of trans, non-binary and gender independent students; and advocates for safe and affirming school climates across the TDSB through staff training, student workshops and case consultations on topics such as healthy relationships, abuse prevention, and gender and sexual diversity.

Avi Magidsohn (he/him)
Trans & Non-binary Support/Triangle Program Social Worker
Gender & Sexual Diversity Team, TDSB
I have worked at the TDSB for almost 20 years in various programs – Human Sexuality Program; Deaf & Hard of Hearing Program; School Social Work; and finally, the Gender & Sexual Diversity Team. In my current role, I have the opportunity to provide social work support to the Triangle Program (Canada’s only 2SLGBTQIA+ alternative high school), co-facilitate the kids program during our monthly Gender Independent Group (group for trans/non-binary/gender-expansive students from Kindergarten to Grade 6 and their caregivers), and provide individual support to trans/non-binary/gender-expansive students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 across the TDSB. As a Black, trans man, I am so aware of the importance of being out and visible so that trans and non-binary students (especially, BIPOC students) see themselves reflected in the people they are going to for support.

Registration required. University of Toronto students, staff, postdoctoral fellows and faculty are welcome. Partners and family members (including chosen family members) who are co-caregivers with U of T students, staff, postdoctoral fellows and faculty are also welcome to attend. If you have any access needs to ensure your full participation in this event, please contact the Family Care Office and we will make appropriate arrangements.

Grad Talk: Becoming a Parent in Graduate School

Date: Tuesday, November 5, 2019
Time: 12:00 – 2:00 pm
Location: Cumberland Room, Centre for International Experience, 33 St. George Street

Lunch will be provided.

Many students debate whether they should have a baby in graduate school or wait until their lives and careers are more established. This session will help you make a more informed decision about what it means to start a family during grad school, including:

  • A panel discussion featuring a faculty member and graduate students who are raising children; you will be able to hear firsthand about their experiences for integrating studies and careers with raising children
  • Hear about programs and resources available for students who are starting a family: University and Government leave policies; funding options for pregnancy/parental leave; and, resources for new parents
  • Self-assessment — you will have an opportunity to explore your own readiness to start a family.

Presented by the Family Care Office, the School of Graduate Studies, and the Gradlife Program.

Registration required. University of Toronto students and their partners are welcome. Please let us know if you have any mobility challenges so we can accommodate your needs.

Grad Connections: Students with Family Responsibilities

Date: Friday, October 12, 2018
Time: 2:00 – 3:30 PM
Location: SGS Lounge, 63 St George St.

Take a break and connect with other grad students at our new bi-weekly chat forum. Share your experiences in an informal setting, talk about your challenges and life as a graduate student. An expert staff facilitator will be available to answer questions related to each week’s theme. This is a free event! Coffee and tea will be available. Space is limited to 25.

Grad Student Parent Meet-ups

Connect and unwind with other U of T graduate students who have or are about to have children. Share resources, get support and enjoy relaxing craft activities!

Pizza lunch will be served.

All U of T graduate student parents and expectant graduate students are welcome.

This program is a collaborative initiative of the Family Care Office, Graduate Student Union, Grad Life and Hart House.