i
However, there are some risks in taking a blanket approach to gender-neutral communication. Parents mostly identify as either “mother” or “father” and understand these terms. They may not connect with gender-neutral terms such as “gestational parent” and “non-birthing parent.”23 The term “birthing parent” does not speak to adoptive parents, and could elicit an emotional response where the birth experience has been traumatic. In short, inclusive parenting language is tricky and evolving. Society does not yet have the perfect terms for everyone. Where you can’t individualise your language, our advice is to try and use gender-neutral language alongside the more traditional gendered terms. In this resource we have used “fathers and non- birthing parents”.
Recommendations
Use both gender-neutral and gender-specific language where appropriate Be mindful not to make assumptions about gender. Ask about preferred names and pronouns W here appropriate, check in with your clients on their preferred terminology. F or example, “How would you like me to refer to you each as parents : mum, dad, or perhaps another term ? ” Be conscious that the word “parent” may not gain men ’ s attention — call out men, dads or fathers on written communication so they don ’ t assume “parent” means “mother” W hen engaging with fathers, use the terms “father” or “dad”, along with gender-neutral terms where appropriate. F or example, “Blackwood Health S ervice invites all parents ; mums, dads, and partners, to attend its information session” Be conscious of the diversity of parents and families. Y ou may be working with single parents, separated parents, LG BT IQ A + parents, those who are co-parenting and those who are not, or families that follow Aboriginal kinship or extended family structures
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Additional resources
i LGBTIQA+ Glossary of common terms – Australian Institute of Family Studies aifs.gov.au/resources/resource-sheets/ lgbtiqa-glossary-common-terms
i LGBTIA+ Inclusive language guide – Victorian Government
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vic.gov.au/inclusive-language-guide
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