For Lesbian Parents: Your Guide to Helping Your Family Grow Up Happy, Healthy, and Proud

Raising a child is overwhelming, thrilling, exhausting, terrifying, and joyous--and all at the same time. In addition to the adjustments that any new parents must make, lesbian mothers face numerous special questions and concerns. From "coming out" to your child to coping with the pressures of trying to be a lesbian super-mom, this wise and reassuring book offers information and support for women forging a new path in what it means to be a family. The authors are uniquely qualified for the task as expert developmental psychologists who are also coparenting two young daughters. With clarity and wit, they offer helpful advice on what kids need to know, and at what age; how to help them respond to questions and teasing from peers; ways to foster sensitivity in relatives, teachers, and others; how to talk to teens about their own developing sexuality; how parenting affects couple relationships; and much more. Chapters are packed with the insights and experiences of lesbians who have come to be parents in a variety of ways. Also included are listings of useful web sites, publications, and other resources.

Winner--Best Parenting Book, ForeWord Magazine's Book of the Year Awards

Suzanne M. Johnson, PhD, is Professor and Chairperson of Psychology at Dowling College. She lives on Long Island, New York, with coauthor Elizabeth O'Connor and their two daughters.

Elizabeth O'Connor, PhD, is a researcher and writer focusing on child development, adult relationships, and families. She lives on Long Island, New York, with coauthor Suzanne M. Johnson and their two daughters.