Tute Virtual Coffee Morning recap – June 27, 2025

Written by Natalie Hollins,

Parent Support Associate

Topic: Embracing family diversity – celebrating Pride Month together

Friday, June 27th | 10:00–11:00 AM

We were so pleased to welcome parents and carers to our second Virtual Coffee Morning. For those who couldn’t make it, here’s a quick roundup of what we explored together.

Celebrating family in all its forms

This month’s conversation centred on family diversity and how we can support LGBTQ+ inclusion and empathy in our homes. We reflected on the idea that:

“Love makes a family – not who’s in the photo.”

Parents shared thoughts on the many ways families can look, from blended and single-parent homes to same-sex parents, kinship carers, and chosen families. We explored why it’s important for young people to see their own family structure accepted and reflected in stories, schools, and everyday conversations.

Talking About LGBTQ+ Identity

We discussed how children of all ages are naturally curious and may ask questions about gender identity or same-sex relationships. Together, we considered how to:

• Answer honestly, calmly, and in age-appropriate ways.
• Show young people they are safe, loved, and accepted for who they are.
• Model kindness and inclusion in everyday moments.

We shared this powerful reminder:

“When children grow up knowing they are accepted for who they are, they grow up stronger.” – Stonewall UK

Inclusion starts at home

Small, everyday actions can help children learn that everyone belongs:

• Using inclusive language like, “grown-ups at home” rather than assuming, “mum and dad.”
• Sharing books and stories that celebrate diverse families.
• Talking openly about kindness, fairness, and respect as family values.

We reminded each other that we don’t need to have all the answers, just a willingness to create a space where questions are welcome and people are respected.

Helpful resources shared

Here are a few organisations and books mentioned during the session:

Stonewall – www.stonewall.org.uk

Just Like Us – www.justlikeus.org

Books:

And Tango Makes Three

Julian is a Mermaid

Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag

One final thought…

“We don’t have to understand everything to be kind and respectful.” – Parent participant

Next Coffee Morning?

Topic: Back to School & New Year Prep
Friday, August 29th | 10:00–11:00 AM
Look out for more details coming soon, and as always, no need to register!

Thank you to all who joined us. If you have questions or thoughts to share, feel free to reach out via the Parent Hub or speak to a member of the Tute team.

Together, we’re building a supportive community where every child and every family feels seen, safe, and celebrated.