Affirming Kids Resources and Books for Pride Month in St. Louis, Missouri
This Pride Month, we’re excitedly taking the time to celebrate and learn from LGBTQIA+ voices. At our play therapy practice, we understand how important it is for kids and teens to feel seen, heard, and welcome for who they are.
Children and teens are often more aware of identity, fairness, and belonging than adults expect. They notice differences. They ask questions. And they’re forming beliefs about themselves and others all the time. That’s why it matters to offer affirming stories, safe spaces, and supportive conversations, always, but especially during Pride Month.
Below, you’ll find some of our favorite LGBTQ+ affirming books for kids, along with local St. Louis resources and ways to support your queer child or teen—whether they’re exploring identity, asking questions, or simply learning how to be an ally.
Why Affirming Resources Matter for Kids and Teens
Books and community spaces can help children:
Understand identity and diversity
Build empathy and confidence
Feel less alone in their experiences
Learn how to support others
For teens especially, having affirming support can make a big difference in mental health and self-esteem. If your teen is navigating identity, relationships, or stress our teen therapy services offer both in-person support in St. Louis and virtual teen therapy across Missouri.
LGBTQ+ Affirming Books for Children
Stonewall: A Building, An Uprising, A Revolution
Written by Rob Sanders & Illustrated by Jamey Christoph
This book introduces kids to an important moment in LGBTQ+ history: the Stonewall Uprising. It helps children understand that change is possible—and that standing up for yourself and others matters.
Why we love this book
Celebrates LGBTQ+ history in an accessible way
Acknowledges discrimination while staying age-appropriate
Encourages advocacy and courage
Julián Is a Mermaid
Written & Illustrated by Jessica Love
This beautifully illustrated story follows a young boy named Julian, who is inspired by the people on the subway with brightly colored dresses, resembling mermaids. When he shares his dream with his Abuela, her response becomes a powerful example of love and acceptance.
Why We Love this Book
Affirms gender creativity and self-expression
Shows the impact of caregiver support
Encourages imagination and confidence
This story is also a gentle reminder: how we respond as caregivers really matters. When children explore identity, especially something new or unfamiliar, leading with curiosity and care can make all the difference!
And Tango Makes Three
Written by Peter Parnell & Illustrated by Henry Cole
Based on a true story, this book follows two male penguins who build a life and family together in the New York Zoo. It’s a simple, loving way to introduce the idea that families come in many forms.
Why we love this book
Normalizes same-sex parents
Highlights adoption and adoptive families
Uses real-world examples from nature
Federico and All His Families
by Mili Hernandez | I
llustrations by Gomez
This story celebrates all kinds of families—not just queer families, but single-parent homes, multigenerational households, and more.
Why we love this book
Shows a wide range of family structures
Reinforces that love is what makes a family
Helps children feel less “different” or alone
When Aidan Became a Brother
Written by Kyle Lukoff & Illustrated by Kaylani Juanita
This story follows Aidan, a transgender boy preparing to become a big brother. It gently explores identity, change, and the desire to “get things right” for someone you love.
Why we love this book:
Centers transgender experiences in a child-friendly way
Encourages flexibility and open-minded parenting
Celebrates growth, love and learning
This Day in June
Written by Gayle E. Pitman & Illustrated by Kristyna Litten
A joyful introduction to Pride celebrations, this book shows what families might see at a Pride Parade—from colorful outfits to community joy.
Why We Love this Book
Introduces Pride in a fun, accessible way
Highlights diversity and celebration
Opens the door for meaningful conversations
St. Louis Resources for LGBTQ+ Kids and Families
St. Louis has some incredible organizations supporting LGBTQ+ youth and families.
Proud Art STL (PASTL)
offers a creative, welcoming space for queer youth to explore art forms like photography, dyeing, and even cake decorating. Their pay-what-you-want model makes it accessible to many families, which we love!
Transparent (St. Louis chapter)
Supports transgender youth and their families through community and monthly meetings. While caregivers connect, kids can safely engage with trained professionals and creative activities.
Kid-Friendly Pride Events in St. Louis Missouri
If your family is looking for ways to celebrate Pride locally, St. Louis has great options:
Pride and Joy (Webster Groves) is a new-ish child & youth-focused Pride on May 31st
St. Louis PrideFest (Downtown St. Louis) typically takes place in late June
Tower Grove Pride (Tower Grove Park) offers a fall celebration option, usually in late September
These events are family-friendly and full of joy, expression, and community connection. They can also be a great opportunity to start conversations with your child about identity, inclusion, and acceptance.
How Play Therapy Supports LGBTQ+ Youth
Right now, it can feel hard to navigate identity and acceptance—especially with messages kids and teens may hear in the world around them. But, community still exists. Support still exists. And your child (and you) deserve both.
At our play therapy practice, we welcome every kind of child, teen, and family. We’re here to listen, support, and walk alongside you—whether that means answering questions, processing fears, or simply giving your child space to be themselves.
If you’d like more guidance in how to support your LGBTQIA+ child or teen, reach out today for a free consultation.
