Should there be gay characters in children's shows?

[Ninastar]

It's a very complicated subject... With people out there who have religious beliefs against gay people being married, having sex, actually living, etc etc, is it a bad idea to have gay characters on kids shows?

I'm a little on the fence. I was talking to my friends about this the other day when we had a movie night with pizza. One of my friends said 'disney need a gay princess or prince. It's 2015, they need to get with the times.' I was like, yeah I agree. I think that would be a great idea. but then my other friend said 'I don't know, wouldn't that confuse kids?' and I was like, yeah, it might, but it would also teach them that it's okay not to be straight...

I know that in showbiz, being out of the closet could totally ruin your career, but is it different with kids shows? Obviously the people in it arent real, but you'd face the problem of licenses not actually allowing it on TV and stuff. I don't see disney or any of these huge companys having gay characters soon, but what about smaller shows?

I'm a big geek and I watch all kinds of crap for kids/teens, whatever. I've never seen a gay character once, until last year. And even on that show, it wasn't clear until literally the last 5 seconds. It's the show from my avatar so if you was going to watch, sorry for the spoilers!!! But yeah, what I really noticed was that 'Wow, this hasnt ever been done before' and it's crazy to think that. There's been gay characters in soaps and tv shows for like 20 years now. Isn't it about time that we had the same for some kids shows?

And I don't think it should be like OTT 'WOOHOO IM SUPER GAY KIDS, THIS IS WHAT GAY IS!!!' lol. It should be subtle. Talked about only once or twice and the character should live life like everyone else does.

What are your opinions? Is it about time that kids shows had some gay characters?

[Ninastar]

sorry if thats a bunch of mumbo jumbo, but im totes hungover right now, lol

[Cal.]

Good Luck Charlie had a lesbian couple in it during its last season (a show on Disney Channel) but they were only in one episode. I think there should be more, being gay is normal so why shouldn't it be represented in TV?

[Ashley.]

I think so yes. Wasn't Tinkie Winkie supposed to be gay?

[Xtopher]

Yes.

http://vignette2.wikia.nocookie.net/telletubbies/images/6/61/OMG.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20120330222749

[Drew.]

Bill & Ben were definitely at it

[LemonJam]

Absolutely. If I'm honest a fairly big part in me coming out myself was the rise of LGB representation in television/film. I'd like to think that LGB kids growing up would feel less isolated if there were gay characters represented to them from a younger age. I also feel like it'd tackle homophobia in younger children growing up, as they'd be more likely to accept it as perfectly normal.

[Liam-]

Yes, but without the obvious stereotypes, just have a subtle gay or lesbian couple there without being the obligatory token gay they normally are on TV, it wouldn't hurt any and I think it would be a good way to help bring young people to the conclusion that gays are just people.

[Amy Jade]

100% they should and I don't even think it should be a focus really, so long as silly sterotypes are avoided of course.

[JoshBB]

Yes, but without the obvious stereotypes, just have a subtle gay or lesbian couple there without being the obligatory token gay they normally are on TV, it wouldn't hurt any and I think it would be a good way to help bring young people to the conclusion that gays are just people.

Basically this.

Gay people are a normal part of society and that should be reflected

[Ninastar]

Yes, but without the obvious stereotypes, just have a subtle gay or lesbian couple there without being the obligatory token gay they normally are on TV, it wouldn't hurt any and I think it would be a good way to help bring young people to the conclusion that gays are just people.

Glad to see you feel the same as me! I think that if it was done subtly, it could be perfect.

[Liam-]

I mean, having a flaming camp gay or a massive butch bald headed lezza on something like Balamory would probably help accustom kids to seeing those types of people in the future, but it would only help to back up the stereotypes and would only hurt in the long run, subtlety would be key if they ever decided to do it.

[Jake.]

Rosie and post-op Jim needs to happen

[Amy Jade]

Is the ginger guy who lives in the pink castle gay in Balamory?

[JoshBB]

I mean, having a flaming camp gay or a massive butch bald headed lezza on something like Balamory would probably help accustom kids to seeing those types of people in the future, but it would only help to back up the stereotypes and would only hurt in the long run, subtlety would be key if they ever decided to do it.

I think if it was clear that they were gay without stereotypes or making it a huge part of the show, it'd be great.

[Crimson Dynamo]

No i dont think so.

[Liam-]

Is the ginger guy who lives in the pink castle gay in Balamory?

No, Scottish

[Niamh.]

Yeah I don't see why not, kids only get confused when adults confuse them

[Liam-]

I think if it was clear that they were gay without stereotypes or making it a huge part of the show, it'd be great.

Give them kids, or a fluffy little dog called Tinkerbell

[Lostie!]

I read that The Legend of Korra hinted at a same-sex relationship between two female characters, and apparently ParaNorman had a gay character.

But yes, there should be nothing stopping it from happening more. Some people say it's inappropriate and harmful, I think it's more so to pretend that gay people don't exist and/or tell children that they are "wrong".

[arista]

I think so yes. Wasn't Tinkie Winkie supposed to be gay?



No thats Closet Gay

[arista]

Yeah I don't see why not, kids only get confused when adults confuse them


Yes but if a show goes to far
it could confuse the kids even more
Ch4HD or BBCHD?

[armand.kay]

yeah if its appropriate to show straight relationships on kids shows I can't see the harm in having a gay character...

[LemonJam]

Yes but if a show goes to far
it could confuse the kids even more
Ch4HD or BBCHD?

yeah gotta say I saw one episode of Glee and it obviously left too much of an impression on me. :\

[arista]

No i dont think so.


http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/ffximage/svINMAN_narrowweb__300x476,2.jpg

[Crimson Dynamo]

I by accident have watch bits of a lot of american kids shows over the years like zoey 101, hannah montanna, your so raven, jessie etc etc and there are lots of wee gay boys in them shows? In fact just about every one has little camp boy characters

[Crimson Dynamo]

http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/ffximage/svINMAN_narrowweb__300x476,2.jpg

:worship:

[kirklancaster]

Bill & Ben were definitely at it

:laugh: But they seemed to always complain that they couldn't 'get hard' - at least I used to think that's what they meant by "Flopalot".

[Crimson Dynamo]

Thelma was a lesbian in Scooby doo

[Jarrod]

Luke Smith was going to "come out" as gay in the fifth series of The Sarah Jane Adventures - but due to the death of Elisabeth Sladen the production stopped immediately. I do think that if this would have happened, it would have been a great way to portray acceptance to a wider children's audience. The show had a massive following of young viewers.

This idea did come around in some form though as RTD's children's show Wizards VS Aliens now has a main gay character. I think it's wonderful.

[Tom4784]

Definitely. Quite surprised that it hasn't happened yet (to my knowledge) outside of Korra and plans for Sarah Jane Adventures.

[Dominic]

YES! In my opinion, if the parents don't want their children to be gay or don't want to set off that example for them (which I completely don't understand, I think everyone should just be able to love whoever they want), then there's plenty of children shows that have no homosexual couples, characters, etc.

[Shaun]

yeah gotta say I saw one episode of Glee and it obviously left too much of an impression on me. :\

can't even go for a pint with LemonJam now without him screaming Defying Gravity at you in a wheelchair

[LemonJam]

can't even go for a pint with LemonJam now without him screaming Defying Gravity at you in a wheelchair

prepare yourself for our next outing, it's mashup week. I'm doing Wonderwall and Watch me (Whip/Nae Nae).

[Ninastar]

yeah gotta say I saw one episode of Glee and it obviously left too much of an impression on me. :\

the lesbian on glee turned me <3

Nah, she didnt. but the show did help me realise i was more of a homo than I thought

[letmein]

Should there be black characters in children's shows?

[Will.]

Luke Smith was going to "come out" as gay in the fifth series of The Sarah Jane Adventures - but due to the death of Elisabeth Sladen the production stopped immediately. I do think that if this would have happened, it would have been a great way to portray acceptance to a wider children's audience. The show had a massive following of young viewers.

This idea did come around in some form though as RTD's children's show Wizards VS Aliens now has a main gay character. I think it's wonderful.

Ah, I never knew that. I was only like 7 when it was on, was there signs/teasers he was Gay?

[Tom4784]

Ah, I never knew that. I was only like 7 when it was on, was there signs/teasers he was Gay?

If I remember right he talked about a 'friend' who would have eventually been revealed to be his bf.

[Will.]

If I remember right he talked about a 'friend' who would have eventually been revealed to be his bf.

Ok, I never knew that, I guess at 7/8 I was just hooked on the actual adventures (monster and aliens etc).

But now watching kids shows I can see stuff like that and understand what it means.

I loved SJA.

[lostalex]

Yes, it would be nice to have some gay heros in disney. Instead of just the villains always being gay...Jafar, Scar, Ursela all seemed to play on gay stereotypes.

[T*]

Should there be black characters in children's shows?

there is

[Ammi]

It's a very complicated subject... With people out there who have religious beliefs against gay people being married, having sex, actually living, etc etc, is it a bad idea to have gay characters on kids shows?

I'm a little on the fence. I was talking to my friends about this the other day when we had a movie night with pizza. One of my friends said 'disney need a gay princess or prince. It's 2015, they need to get with the times.' I was like, yeah I agree. I think that would be a great idea. but then my other friend said 'I don't know, wouldn't that confuse kids?' and I was like, yeah, it might, but it would also teach them that it's okay not to be straight...

I know that in showbiz, being out of the closet could totally ruin your career, but is it different with kids shows? Obviously the people in it arent real, but you'd face the problem of licenses not actually allowing it on TV and stuff. I don't see disney or any of these huge companys having gay characters soon, but what about smaller shows?

I'm a big geek and I watch all kinds of crap for kids/teens, whatever. I've never seen a gay character once, until last year. And even on that show, it wasn't clear until literally the last 5 seconds. It's the show from my avatar so if you was going to watch, sorry for the spoilers!!! But yeah, what I really noticed was that 'Wow, this hasnt ever been done before' and it's crazy to think that. There's been gay characters in soaps and tv shows for like 20 years now. Isn't it about time that we had the same for some kids shows?

And I don't think it should be like OTT 'WOOHOO IM SUPER GAY KIDS, THIS IS WHAT GAY IS!!!' lol. It should be subtle. Talked about only once or twice and the character should live life like everyone else does.

What are your opinions? Is it about time that kids shows had some gay characters?

..I think it's an interesting but complicated one, I said something similar yesterday about Disney princes/princesses in another thread..how that's portrayed to children as 'the ideal/or norm' type thing so then is it just potentially going to instil prejudice..?..I know that some people..(side eyes LT..) believe that religion shouldn't be taught in schools in any form and I do understand why but at the same time, it's also a learning of cultures which can only lead to more tolerance, so the same with sexuality..?.....from a child's point of view, most want to be what they consider 'normal' and just like their peers, they don't want to stand out in any way because standing out can be something that brings on teasing/bullying etc...so for instance, if they had gay parents themselves, should they only have TV shows that portray the 'norm' as male/female parents and not gay couples because also they have TV shows..(or maybe they do/I don't know that portray single parents etc..)..so why not gay parents..?..because that would make them feel not 'the norm'...

...but if you're explaining something like a single parent to a young child, it's easier to do than explaining 'gay' simply because it doesn't involve sex in any way, although homosexuality can be explained without having to refer to sex, I know ...just that those two people love each other etc...there is an age at school when sex/sexuality is covered by the curriculum but up until that age, parents want to decide themselves what age they think their child can understand certain things and would children's TV programmes which included homosexual characters take that choice away from them..invoke questions and discussions from their child that they don't want to have until they decide to have them..?..and they don't want to have to instil bans on TV programmes either...there is such an age range of children who watch 'children's time' TV... oh nothing to do with the topic, but I've known older parents over the years whose children have been teased etc because they're parents haven't fitted into the 'norm' of other parents in the playground, the young parents..and is that your grandma/granddad, type thing...so yeah that's obviously hurtful to a child and they don't understand because they're just mum and dad...

...in my working environment with colleagues who are gay and others I know from other schools etc...a member of staff can say/in assembly for instance or to their class..I'm getting married on Saturday etc so I'll become Mrs etc and not Miss whatever...and talk to the children a bit about their partner...but with a gay colleague, yes they can refer to their wedding but if it was a guy, then he couldn't refer to them as another 'he', just 'they' and he can't introduce his partner/husband etc as such but more just as a 'friend'...so that's quite wrong and hard for them, they don't get to celebrate with their class and their school in quite the same way as heterosexual couples do...but then if it was different, and they could ..would that just flood parents in with...this has just meant questions which I as a parent object to because I'll decide when those questions should be answered and when to have these talks with my child and you as a school should understand that..?../so the same with TV programmes..?..

..sorry if this is a bit fragmented but I sometimes draft a post like this and copy/paste but I don't have Word Office atm so I'm just typing it straight down and not reading back over...

[Kizzy]

..I think it's an interesting but complicated one, I said something similar yesterday about Disney princes/princesses in another thread..how that's portrayed to children as 'the ideal/or norm' type thing so then is it just potentially going to instil prejudice..?..I know that some people..(side eyes LT..) believe that religion shouldn't be taught in schools in any form and I do understand why but at the same time, it's also a learning of cultures which can only lead to more tolerance, so the same with sexuality..?.....from a child's point of view, most want to be what they consider 'normal' and just like their peers, they don't want to stand out in any way because standing out can be something that brings on teasing/bullying etc...so for instance, if they had gay parents themselves, should they only have TV shows that portray the 'norm' as male/female parents and not gay couples because also they have TV shows..(or maybe they do/I don't know that portray single parents etc..)..so why not gay parents..?..because that would make them feel not 'the norm'...

...but if you're explaining something like a single parent to a young child, it's easier to do than explaining 'gay' simply because it doesn't involve sex in any way, although homosexuality can be explained without having to refer to sex, I know ...just that those two people love each other etc...there is an age at school when sex/sexuality is covered by the curriculum but up until that age, parents want to decide themselves what age they think their child can understand certain things and would children's TV programmes which included homosexual characters take that choice away from them..invoke questions and discussions from their child that they don't want to have until they decide to have them..?..and they don't want to have to instil bans on TV programmes either...there is such an age range of children who watch 'children's time' TV... oh nothing to do with the topic, but I've known older parents over the years whose children have been teased etc because they're parents haven't fitted into the 'norm' of other parents in the playground, the young parents..and is that your grandma/granddad, type thing...so yeah that's obviously hurtful to a child and they don't understand because they're just mum and dad...

...in my working environment with colleagues who are gay and others I know from other schools etc...a member of staff can say/in assembly for instance or to their class..I'm getting married on Saturday etc so I'll become Mrs etc and not Miss whatever...and talk to the children a bit about their partner...but with a gay colleague, yes they can refer to their wedding but if it was a guy, then he couldn't refer to them as another 'he', just 'they' and he can't introduce his partner/husband etc as such but more just as a 'friend'...so that's quite wrong and hard for them, they don't get to celebrate with their class and their school in quite the same way as heterosexual couples do...but then if it was different, and they could ..would that just flood parents in with...this has just meant questions which I as a parent object to because I'll decide when those questions should be answered and when to have these talks with my child and you as a school should understand that..?../so the same with TV programmes..?..

..sorry if this is a bit fragmented but I sometimes draft a post like this and copy/paste but I don't have Word Office atm so I'm just typing it straight down and not reading back over...

It's basically just bigotry then, schools are not against teaching sex education in primary so where is the issue?
The gay teacher would be fearful of telling the truth not for the reactions from the kids but the parents, not because of timing but because they had burst the illusion that nothing outside the norm exists.

There have always been gay characters in kids programming but so ambiguous that it goes over the heads of children, if schools and TV were to work together to myth bust for all minorities then some kids wouldn't be quite so confused.

[Ammi]

..I did actually say that sex education is on the curriculum for older year groups in primary schools so I don't see what you're asking me there..and as for staff/school workers being fearful, well no that doesn't come into it at all, it's something that parents feel strongly about that they will choose when to explain, which is why there is always an opt out in these things as well if needed... and schools are fairly much damned if they do and damned if they don't in lots of things/just the way of it ...

[Ninastar]

dont worry ammi, i get what you're saying. ill post a proper reply later though when im not half asleep

[Niall]

Why is it a complicated subject? There are scores of queer people in society and kids are going to meet them no matter what, so why should gay people be censored from children's television? Queer people are a normal part of life just as the sun rising is, and quite frankly anyone who thinks they shouldn't be included reeks of homophobia to me.

[Ninastar]

Why is it a complicated subject? There are scores of queer people in society and kids are going to meet them no matter what, so why should gay people be censored from children's television? Queer people are a normal part of life just as the sun rising is, and quite frankly anyone who thinks they shouldn't be included reeks of homophobia to me.

Because in some places in the world, it's still illegal to be gay. In some places, you can still be stoned to death for who you are. These are places where children may have family members from... It's not as easy as just putting gay characters on TV shows, when there are kids out there who could get beaten up just for watching a show with gay characters. It happens, believe me.

Having said though, I still think we should put gay characters on TV. Not because I want kids to get beaten up obvs, but because we live in a place where it's legal for Gays to get married. They have every right as everyone else. It's 2015, I think if you move to this country, you should get over any issues that you have with stuff like this.

[Ammi]

dont worry ammi, i get what you're saying. ill post a proper reply later though when im not half asleep

..:love:..no worries, I don't want you letting the gay down by posting before you look anything less than gorgeous...

[Kizzy]

..I did actually say that sex education is on the curriculum for older year groups in primary schools so I don't see what you're asking me there..and as for staff/school workers being fearful, well no that doesn't come into it at all, it's something that parents feel strongly about that they will choose when to explain, which is why there is always an opt out in these things as well if needed... and schools are fairly much damned if they do and damned if they don't in lots of things/just the way of it ...

Yes you did I'm saying that could be a great jumping off point for a discussion.

'.I know that some people..(side eyes LT..) believe that religion shouldn't be taught in schools in any form and I do understand why but at the same time, it's also a learning of cultures which can only lead to more tolerance, so the same with sexuality..?.'

I'm agreeing with you that it's needed to encourage tolerance, it's very sad that the gay staff can't share in their happy news for fear of angry parents.

[Ashley.]

Yes
AProducer'sWetDream, armand.kay, Ashley., Chaos, Chewy, Dollface, extracheezz, Jarrod, Jay., JoshBB, kirklancaster, Kizzy, LemonJam, letmein, lostalex, Lostie!, LukeB, MB., Natalie., Shaun, Smithy, Tøm, Who Is She?, Will1999, Withano, Xtopher

No
LeatherTrumpet

welp

[Ammi]

Why is it a complicated subject? There are scores of queer people in society and kids are going to meet them no matter what, so why should gay people be censored from children's television? Queer people are a normal part of life just as the sun rising is, and quite frankly anyone who thinks they shouldn't be included reeks of homophobia to me.

..also following on from what Caitlin has said Niall.../complicated also because for people working in any capacity in Children's TV...if the decision to have gay characters which they may be in total agreement with themselves etc...also meant a 'mass switch off' by parents..?..then that could be a loss of job and livelihood for them as well/so lots of perspectives to think about...?...

[Kizzy]

Yes
AProducer'sWetDream, armand.kay, Ashley., Chaos, Chewy, Dollface, extracheezz, Jarrod, Jay., JoshBB, kirklancaster, Kizzy, LemonJam, letmein, lostalex, Lostie!, LukeB, MB., Natalie., Shaun, Smithy, Tøm, Who Is She?, Will1999, Withano, Xtopher

No
LeatherTrumpet

welp

As said LT doesn't believe religion should be taught either before any silly accusations begin.

[lostalex]

sex has no more to do with gay love than it does with straight love. so why is it too sexual to have gay characters showing love in a story than it is for straight characters to show love? The vast majority of disney movies include a heterosexual love story, but no one complains it's too sexual.

Since when is love and romance overtly sexual?

Maybe we should arrest all straight parents who dare to hug or kiss in front of their own kids. But if 2 men hug and kiss in front of kids it's too sexual?

[lostalex]

Yes
AProducer'sWetDream, armand.kay, Ashley., Chaos, Chewy, Dollface, extracheezz, Jarrod, Jay., JoshBB, kirklancaster, Kizzy, LemonJam, letmein, lostalex, Lostie!, LukeB, MB., Natalie., Shaun, Smithy, Tøm, Who Is She?, Will1999, Withano, Xtopher

No
LeatherTrumpet

welp

:joker:

Hey, it's a public poll... very interesting.

[Kizzy]

..also following on from what Caitlin has said Niall.../complicated also because for people working in any capacity in Children's TV...if the decision to have gay characters which they may be in total agreement with themselves etc...also meant a 'mass switch off' by parents..?..then that could be a loss of job and livelihood for them as well/so lots of perspectives to think about...?...

Would that not be pandering to the bigots? It's not a progressive society if nothing ever changes, we have these new laws to promote equality yet there is nothing to celebrate it or instill it as an acceptable social norm.

[lostalex]

Would that not be pandering to the bigots? It's not a progressive society if nothing ever changes, we have these new laws to promote equality yet there is nothing to celebrate it or instill it as an acceptable social norm.

It would definitely be pandering to bigots. no doubt about it.

maybe with the new influx of muslim refugees we can't show anyone eating pork on TV, because they might boycott. No more Pork or Bacon dishes on Masterchef, the muslims might get offended.

since when is it okay to limit people just because of IDIOTIC religious beliefs?? do we live in a free world or not???

[Kizzy]

* peppa looks around nervously*

[Northern Monkey]

I voted no as a general vote.But i'm not totally against it.I think it depends on the age range that these shows are aimed at really.I'd say no for shows aimed at really young kids who have'nt even learned about the birds and the bees yet and about relationships in general.I think it could just confuse them and also raise questions that the parents are'nt ready to answer yet.I mean maybe if there was a warning at the start so the parents could choose wether their kids watch or not then that would be ok but without knowing which shows this would be in then parents have no control over when their kids are exposed to it.
I think parents need to be in control of when they decide to educate their children on certain subjects and wether their kids are ready or not,Kids mature at different rates.Also when kids do sex education at school and learn about what men and women do to make babies it could raise questions about what men and men or women and women do and i don't think alot of parents or teachers would be
A.knowledgable enough
or
B.would want to have to try and explain it.

[joeysteele]

Yeah I don't see why not, kids only get confused when adults confuse them

That is a brilliant point Niamh. I agree.

[Firewire]

If I had grew up seeing gay people in TV shows it would certainly make life a lot easier. It shouldn't be taboo.

[Cherie]

I voted no as a general vote.But i'm not totally against it.I think it depends on the age range that these shows are aimed at really.I'd say no for shows aimed at really young kids who have'nt even learned about the birds and the bees yet and about relationships in general.I think it could just confuse them and also raise questions that the parents are'nt ready to answer yet.I mean maybe if there was a warning at the start so the parents could choose wether their kids watch or not then that would be ok but without knowing which shows this would be in then parents have no control over when their kids are exposed to it.
I think parents need to be in control of when they decide to educate their children on certain subjects and wether their kids are ready or not,Kids mature at different rates.Also when kids do sex education at school and learn about what men and women do to make babies it could raise questions about what men and men or women and women do and i don't think alot of parents or teachers would be
A.knowledgable enough
or
B.would want to have to try and explain it.


That is a very good point

[Crimson Dynamo]

Rainbow had Bungle and he was as gay as a blade


Its been around for years but most folks on here are too young to realise

http://www.worldofcrap.co.uk/uploads/6/4/5/4/6454553/566723.png?281

and the fecking show was called RAINBOW

[LemonJam]

I really don't understand the "they may not want to expose their children to that" argument because:

1. The LGBT community aren't bloody lepers.
2. They're going to find out that some people are LGBT anyway, especially now considering the big leaps forward in visibility of LGBT people and issues over the last 5 years.
3. If you're going to hide the non-harmful realities of life from your children just because you don't agree with it or don't want to explain it to them then you're kind of a homophobe and not exactly showing signs of being a good parent.

[gamepodfan]

smtv had a gay person brian downing

[Kizzy]

I really don't understand the "they may not want to expose their children to that" argument because:

1. The LGBT community aren't bloody lepers.
2. They're going to find out that some people are LGBT anyway, especially now considering the big leaps forward in visibility of LGBT people and issues over the last 5 years.
3. If you're going to hide the non-harmful realities of life from your children just because you don't agree with it or don't want to explain it to them then you're kind of a homophobe and not exactly showing signs of being a good parent.

True, just how sexualised is kids TV anyway, what gory questions could it possibly throw up?

[Northern Monkey]

I really don't understand the "they may not want to expose their children to that" argument because:

1. The LGBT community aren't bloody lepers.
2. They're going to find out that some people are LGBT anyway, especially now considering the big leaps forward in visibility of LGBT people and issues over the last 5 years.
3. If you're going to hide the non-harmful realities of life from your children just because you don't agree with it or don't want to explain it to them then you're kind of a homophobe and not exactly showing signs of being a good parent.There are some realities of life that parents like to ease their kids into and teach at a rate that they feel is beneficial to THEIR child.
All kids are different.Relationships can be complicated enough.I think letting parents choose themselves when and how to explain certain things based on their understanding of their own childs level of maturity is crucial.
For instance i have'nt explained homosexuality to my 3 going on 4 year old yet,Not because i'm a bad parent but because he's most certainly not ready,He does'nt even ask about straight relationships yet.For him it's not even an issue at the moment.However if he saw on telly say two princes kissing each other in a cartoon for instance then i would be put in a position where i'd have to try and explain it to him before i feel he could understand and is ready.
PS nobody is saying LGBT people are lepers.

[Northern Monkey]

smtv had a gay person brian downing

Nothing against that.I think it's more about showing same sex relationships in cartoons.

[Crimson Dynamo]

tbh its the parents job to teach the children about this not a bloody cartoon

[Ammi]

There are some realities of life that parents like to ease their kids into and teach at a rate that they feel is beneficial to THEIR child.
All kids are different.Relationships can be complicated enough.I think letting parents choose themselves when and how to explain certain things based on their understanding of their own childs level of maturity is crucial.
For instance i have'nt explained homosexuality to my 3 going on 4 year old yet,Not because i'm a bad parent but because he's most certainly not ready,He does'nt even ask about straight relationships yet.For him it's not even an issue at the moment.However if he saw on telly say two princes kissing each other in a cartoon for instance then i would be put in a position where i'd have to try and explain it to him before i feel he could understand and is ready.
PS nobody is saying LGBT people are lepers.

..I don't actually think that romantic kissing is shown on children's TV anyway, is it...but there would certainly never be any sexual content anyway..so if that question was asked..whether heterosexual or homosexual related, it would just surely be 'because they love each other/are married'..etc...

[Ammi]

I voted no as a general vote.But i'm not totally against it.I think it depends on the age range that these shows are aimed at really.I'd say no for shows aimed at really young kids who have'nt even learned about the birds and the bees yet and about relationships in general.I think it could just confuse them and also raise questions that the parents are'nt ready to answer yet.I mean maybe if there was a warning at the start so the parents could choose wether their kids watch or not then that would be ok but without knowing which shows this would be in then parents have no control over when their kids are exposed to it.
I think parents need to be in control of when they decide to educate their children on certain subjects and wether their kids are ready or not,Kids mature at different rates.Also when kids do sex education at school and learn about what men and women do to make babies it could raise questions about what men and men or women and women do and i don't think alot of parents or teachers would be
A.knowledgable enough
or
B.would want to have to try and explain it.

...well all teachers will have sex education training and go on courses first because the 'knowledge' is mainly how it's delivered for understanding as well..and explaining any type of sex education/whatever the sexuality..?..non would be any more difficult than another...

[Ammi]

...a gay couple I know have just adopted children/not babies but slightly older children ...they're parents are both male and yet, they won't see two male parents or same sex parents on their TV shows so that may make them feel 'different' ...and that shouldn't be the case.../anyways, yeah interesting and complicated...

[Tom4784]

If you're happy enough with straight romances being played out on Kids' TV then there's no valid argument against gay relationships really.

[Ninastar]

That's a good point. It's hard enough to teach children about sex education, but omg, imagine them having to teach about gay/lesbian sex, when most of them don't really know how it's done in the first place. Well, not properly anyway.

[LemonJam]

There are some realities of life that parents like to ease their kids into and teach at a rate that they feel is beneficial to THEIR child.
All kids are different.Relationships can be complicated enough.I think letting parents choose themselves when and how to explain certain things based on their understanding of their own childs level of maturity is crucial.
For instance i have'nt explained homosexuality to my 3 going on 4 year old yet,Not because i'm a bad parent but because he's most certainly not ready,He does'nt even ask about straight relationships yet.For him it's not even an issue at the moment.However if he saw on telly say two princes kissing each other in a cartoon for instance then i would be put in a position where i'd have to try and explain it to him before i feel he could understand and is ready.
PS nobody is saying LGBT people are lepers.

Yeah, that's totally understandable for that age range (don't worry I'm not calling you a bad parent for not explaining sexuality to a 3 year old :laugh: sorry if it came off that way). I do think that there should be LGBT visibility in childrens shows for ages 7+ where they probably would be able to understand it more and there definitely should be more visibility needed approaching adolescence where young people may begin to realise their sexuality and won't feel so alone growing up.

[Crimson Dynamo]

If you're happy enough with straight romances being played out on Kids' TV then there's no valid argument against gay relationships really.

as long as its around 5% of the time to reflect reality

[Ammi]

That's a good point. It's hard enough to teach children about sex education, but omg, imagine them having to teach about gay/lesbian sex, when most of them don't really know how it's done in the first place. Well, not properly anyway.

...well some teachers who teach sex education are probably virgins also and some aren't parents so it could be argued that they are not qualified to teach children/as thy have no experience of children etc...but the knowledge would be explained..and we're not quite talking every sexual position in schools anyway, which probably not many of us have experience of..:wink:..

[Northern Monkey]

..I don't actually think that romantic kissing is shown on children's TV anyway, is it...but there would certainly never be any sexual content anyway..so if that question was asked..whether heterosexual or homosexual related, it would just surely be 'because they love each other/are married'..etc...

My kids might see me and their mum kiss sometimes like before we go out or if one of us goes to bed etc and they just know that's what we do,I hate to say it but that's 'normal' for them.I mean things like a princess kissing a frog and it turning into a prince and they go get married.If that was a prince kissing a frog and it turning into a prince then i've got some explaining to do right there.I'm gonna start getting the 'why' questions(which never end.lol).I have no choice as to when i want to approach the subject because that choice has been removed from us.
I think these things do need to be explained but imo only when the parent feels that their child is mature enough to understand.

[Ammi]

My kids might see me and their mum kiss sometimes like before we go out or if one of us goes to bed etc and they just know that's what we do,I hate to say it but that's 'normal' for them.I mean things like a princess kissing a frog and it turning into a prince and they go get married.If that was a prince kissing a frog and it turning into a prince then i've got some explaining to do right there.I'm gonna start getting the 'why' questions(which never end.lol).I have no choice as to when i want to approach the subject because that choice has been removed from us.
I think these things do need to be explained but imo only when the parent feels that their child is mature enough to understand.

..absolutely, I do agree with 'age appropriate' which would also be personal for the child themselves, because they all are able to absorb things at different ages..the Disney thing is quite interesting as well because little girls want to be the princess, don't they..?..and little boys want to be the prince, well often they don't because of course they're superman or someone far more exciting but that's the message being sent to them...but what if the little girl felt strongly that she wanted to be the prince or vice versa with the boy/he wanted to be the princess...they should feel that's also an 'ideal' because Disney is 'family'..that's what it's all about 'families' when families come in all shapes and sizes/type thing...my children are a lot older now but if any such question arose..(until they were old enough to understand 'sex'..)..but for the kiss thing...the same answer would be because they love each other...

..anyways I'm having a cooking day so I'll catch the thread again another time...

[Northern Monkey]

Yeah, that's totally understandable for that age range (don't worry I'm not calling you a bad parent for not explaining sexuality to a 3 year old :laugh: sorry if it came off that way). I do think that there should be LGBT visibility in childrens shows for ages 7+ where they probably would be able to understand it more and there definitely should be more visibility needed approaching adolescence where young people may begin to realise their sexuality and won't feel so alone growing up.

I agree.

[T*]

as long as its around 5% of the time to reflect reality


Well that doesn't really reflect reality at seeing as those statistics are incorrect; there is much more of the LGBT community..

[Crimson Dynamo]

Well that doesn't really reflect reality at seeing as those statistics are incorrect; there is much more of the LGBT community..

all the figures I have ever seen is 5%

[Ninastar]

...well some teachers who teach sex education are probably virgins also and some aren't parents so it could be argued that they are not qualified to teach children/as thy have no experience of children etc...but the knowledge would be explained..and we're not quite talking every sexual position in schools anyway, which probably not many of us have experience of..:wink:..

hahaha omg so much thought has to go into this subject it's unreal. I feel bad for any teacher who has to do the sex ed... not fun... not fun at all. I can just imagine teachers telling pupils that lesbians just scissor all the time and all gay guys do is anal.

what they should really tell kids (WHO ARE OLD ENOUGH OF COURSE omg) that its all about the foreplay. Most important advice you can ever give anyone!!!!

[Northern Monkey]

tbh its the parents job to teach the children about this not a bloody cartoon

Why the **** did'nt i just type this!?
You just summarised all my posts in 15 words.:laugh:

[Kizzy]

hahaha omg so much thought has to go into this subject it's unreal. I feel bad for any teacher who has to do the sex ed... not fun... not fun at all. I can just imagine teachers telling pupils that lesbians just scissor all the time and all gay guys do is anal.

what they should really tell kids (WHO ARE OLD ENOUGH OF COURSE omg) that its all about the foreplay. Most important advice you can ever give anyone!!!!

Classes should be full of heterosexual men.... :idc:

[Niamh.]

Why the **** did'nt i just type this!?
You just summarised all my posts in 15 words.:laugh:

what's to teach? Having a gay couple on a TV show is just having a gay couple on a TV show not a sex education lesson :shrug:

[Ammi]

My kids might see me and their mum kiss sometimes like before we go out or if one of us goes to bed etc and they just know that's what we do,I hate to say it but that's 'normal' for them.I mean things like a princess kissing a frog and it turning into a prince and they go get married.If that was a prince kissing a frog and it turning into a prince then i've got some explaining to do right there.I'm gonna start getting the 'why' questions(which never end.lol).I have no choice as to when i want to approach the subject because that choice has been removed from us.
I think these things do need to be explained but imo only when the parent feels that their child is mature enough to understand.

..what I meant was, because I do waffle a bit is that in the context of a children's TV show or at a primary school which I mentioned earlier...all that would be portrayed as also a 'norm' because it is..is a gay couple, no kissing, no sex or anything because children's TV isn't something that shows that anyway but a gay teacher for instance should be able to introduce their partner in the same way as a heterosexual teacher can ...I mean, I talk about my OH to school children if it's something in a conversation but it's not like I ever say...'oh Mr Ammi...the guy I have SEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS with regularly'...or who I kiss regularly...etc...

[T*]

all the figures I have ever seen is 5%


Even those statistics are bogus.. They're not exactly going to interview everyone, and there's still a lot of closeted people so the statistic does not fully show how much of the community is apparent in everyday life..

[Niamh.]

..what I meant was, because I do waffle a bit is that in the context of a children's TV show or at a primary school which I mentioned earlier...all that would be portrayed as also a 'norm' because it is..is a gay couple, no kissing, no sex or anything because children's TV isn't something that shows that anyway but a gay teacher for instance should be able to introduce their partner in the same way as a heterosexual teacher can ...I mean, I talk about my OH to school children if it's something in a conversation but it's not like I ever say...'oh Mr Ammi...the guy I have SEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS with regularly'...or who I kiss regularly...etc...[

:laugh:

But yes exactly

[Ammi]

hahaha omg so much thought has to go into this subject it's unreal. I feel bad for any teacher who has to do the sex ed... not fun... not fun at all. I can just imagine teachers telling pupils that lesbians just scissor all the time and all gay guys do is anal.

what they should really tell kids (WHO ARE OLD ENOUGH OF COURSE omg) that its all about the foreplay. Most important advice you can ever give anyone!!!!

..you come teach, we need you..:laugh:...last year was actually the first year that sex education was on the curriculum as our school is now for slightly older children as well and we did have to send a letter to parents/have them come in and talk to them about hat they're children would be learning etc and would they be ok with that..?..anyways, they also wanted the children to come to the meeting and to let them decide if they wanted it..(because it doesn't have to be covered/it just has to be some kind of personal development topic..)...and from the children it was a unanimous nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo, good gracious me................

[Northern Monkey]

..what I meant was, because I do waffle a bit is that in the context of a children's TV show or at a primary school which I mentioned earlier...all that would be portrayed as also a 'norm' because it is..is a gay couple, no kissing, no sex or anything because children's TV isn't something that shows that anyway but a gay teacher for instance should be able to introduce their partner in the same way as a heterosexual teacher can ...I mean, I talk about my OH to school children if it's something in a conversation but it's not like I ever say...'oh Mr Ammi...the guy I have SEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS with regularly'...or who I kiss regularly...etc...Idk.It's tricky.Maybe if all teachers(gay or straight) just said 'my partener' or 'my other half'.That would surely be a level playing field for everyone along with not putting the parents in a situation that they don't feel ready for?

[Niamh.]

Idk.It's tricky.Maybe if all teachers(gay or straight) just said 'my partener' or 'my other half'.That would surely be a level playing field for everyone along with not putting the parents in a situation that they don't feel ready for?

Parents make it a bigger issue than it has to be, it's really pretty simple to explain. Some men like men and some women like women, kids wouldn't even give it another thought after that if adults didn't make such a big thing about it :laugh:

[Northern Monkey]

what's to teach? Having a gay couple on a TV show is just having a gay couple on a TV show not a sex education lesson :shrug:

Which i think is fine......at a certain age.Not when a child is'nt ready to understand.Imo.

[Northern Monkey]

Parents make it a bigger issue than it has to be, it's really pretty simple to explain. Some men like men and some women like women, kids wouldn't even give it another thought after that if adults didn't make such a big thing about it :laugh:Yeah but then you've got to explain what you mean by 'like'.I mean we don't kiss everyone we like do we.

[Niamh.]

Which i think is fine......at a certain age.Not when a child is'nt ready to understand.Imo.

I think you're wrong, again we're not talking about sex education here, I don't understand what you mean by"when a child isn't ready to understand" understand what? that some men have boyfriends instead of girlfriends? What's hard to understand about that :shrug:

[Northern Monkey]

I think you're wrong, again we're not talking about sex education here, I don't understand what you mean by"when a child isn't ready to understand" understand what? that some men have boyfriends instead of girlfriends? What's hard to understand about that :shrug:
But why?......

[Niamh.]

Yeah but then you've got to explain what you mean by 'like'.I mean we don't kiss everyone we like do we.

But you could say that about straight couples too. I remember reading a story actually around the time leading up to the gay marriage referendum here in Ireland, it went something like this :

"how are we going to explain all this to our children?" Well my 4 year old asked me the other day why Uncle Bob and John kiss and I said because they're in love like mommy and daddy are and he said Oh right ok..........:laugh:

[Ammi]

Parents make it a bigger issue than it has to be, it's really pretty simple to explain. Some men like men and some women like women, kids wouldn't even give it another thought after that if adults didn't make such a big thing about it :laugh:

..haha, that's exactly right..the first questions (and probably the only ones..)..would be...ok, can we go for a walk now/what time are we having tea...etc...

[Ammi]

Idk.It's tricky.Maybe if all teachers(gay or straight) just said 'my partener' or 'my other half'.That would surely be a level playing field for everyone along with not putting the parents in a situation that they don't feel ready for?

..yes, that really should happen and they be able to show their class their wedding photographs and talk about their special day ...

[Kizzy]

..you come teach, we need you..:laugh:...last year was actually the first year that sex education was on the curriculum as our school is now for slightly older children as well and we did have to send a letter to parents/have them come in and talk to them about hat they're children would be learning etc and would they be ok with that..?..anyways, they also wanted the children to come to the meeting and to let them decide if they wanted it..(because it doesn't have to be covered/it just has to be some kind of personal development topic..)...and from the children it was a unanimous nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo, good gracious me................

So sex education is on the curriculum for older children but they were asked and they didn't want it?.... don't ask them if they want maths then :\

[Ammi]

..because some subjects are compulsory and always have been which I'm sure that you know..

[Northern Monkey]

But you could say that about straight couples too. I remember reading a story actually around the time leading up to the gay marriage referendum here in Ireland, it went something like this :

"how are we going to explain all this to our children?" Well my 4 year old asked me the other day why Uncle Bob and John kiss and I said because they're in love like mommy and daddy are and he said Oh right ok..........:laugh:

Ah but not all children would say 'oh right ok'.Some are much more inquisitive.
Some need a reason for everything.'why do some boys love boys and some girls love girls and which should i love?'.Confusing for kids.

[the truth]

yes. but the first priority is more disabled characters in all tv shows...their representation is pathetic. especially as lead characters

[Niamh.]

Ah but not all children would say 'oh right ok'.Some are much more inquisitive.
Some need a reason for everything.'why do some boys love boys and some girls love girls and which should i love?'.Confusing for kids.

Those more inquisitive kids are going to be inquisitive anyway even if it's just about straight couples so I don't get your point at all.

[Niall]

Because in some places in the world, it's still illegal to be gay. In some places, you can still be stoned to death for who you are. These are places where children may have family members from... It's not as easy as just putting gay characters on TV shows, when there are kids out there who could get beaten up just for watching a show with gay characters. It happens, believe me.

Having said though, I still think we should put gay characters on TV. Not because I want kids to get beaten up obvs, but because we live in a place where it's legal for Gays to get married. They have every right as everyone else. It's 2015, I think if you move to this country, you should get over any issues that you have with stuff like this.

Well I don't think that in countries that homophobic that portraying queer characters are going to be the primary concern really. So I don't think the argument really applies to those nations?

Here however - a country where queer individuals enjoy many freedoms that countless others across the world don't - the hesitancy to include queer characters is baffling. People may be made fun of for watching such shows, but then again I was made fun of for watching Powderpuff Girls growing up so... ?

My point is that to combat homophobia you need to look at it from the top down as well as the ground up. Including positive queer role models in children's TV will do wonders for how the next generations view all identities on the queer spectrum. If we censor out a wedge of society, then how are children going to know anything about say, a trans person? What if they grow up and they feel they may be trans? They won't even know what that is, let alone how to come to terms with it.

It's a void that desperately needs filling, and like I said, people that like to argue themselves out of it don't seem like the most accepting bunch to me...

..also following on from what Caitlin has said Niall.../complicated also because for people working in any capacity in Children's TV...if the decision to have gay characters which they may be in total agreement with themselves etc...also meant a 'mass switch off' by parents..?..then that could be a loss of job and livelihood for them as well/so lots of perspectives to think about...?...

Tbh I think that a mass switch off would be easily combated by introducing queer characters across the board. I don't really think there'd be a complete mass switch off either, and even if there was It wouldn't last long. Homophobia/transphobia etc like that is fast becoming a thing of the past so yes, there may be backlash at first but it will wane quickly. I think we all know that.

[Niamh.]

yes. but the first priority is more disabled characters in all tv shows...their representation is pathetic. especially as lead characters

stay on topic please.

[Northern Monkey]

Those more inquisitive kids are going to be inquisitive anyway even if it's just about straight couples so I don't get your point at all.

Don't you think it's more confusing?It's an extra question to contend with and a very perplexing one.
Kids don't know about any of that when they are young so they would be wondering why.
I'd rather not open that can of worms(or have a cartoon do it for me) until they are a little more mature and can even contemplate what love is to begin with.
I think young kids are happy in their naivety and don't need dilemas of that magnitude to contend with.

[Kizzy]

In shrek a donkey mates and has babies with a dragon, how did you explain that?

[Northern Monkey]

In shrek a donkey mates and has babies with a dragon, how did you explain that?

:joker:Haha!My kids have'nt seen that.They like 'Cars' and 'Transformers' and 'Spiderman'

[Niamh.]

Don't you think it's more confusing?It's an extra question to contend with and a very perplexing one.
Kids don't know about any of that when they are young so they would be wondering why.
I'd rather not open that can of worms(or have a cartoon do it for me) until they are a little more mature and can even contemplate what love is to begin with.
I think young kids are happy in their naivety and don't need dilemas of that magnitude to contend with.

In shrek a donkey mates and has babies with a dragon, how did you explain that?

Kizzy actually answered that better than I could :laugh:

That's exactly spot on, I'm guessing no kid even asked or cared , Northern Monkey, you're actually proving my point about adults actually being the ones making things confusing lol

[Niall]

Don't you think it's more confusing?It's an extra question to contend with and a very perplexing one.
Kids don't know about any of that when they are young so they would be wondering why.
I'd rather not open that can of worms(or have a cartoon do it for me) until they are a little more mature and can even contemplate what love is to begin with.
I think young kids are happy in their naivety and don't need dilemas of that magnitude to contend with.

How backward. Kids are going to ask about things anyway, and censoring things on the TV doesn't mean they're not going to say, see two men kiss on the street when they're little?

They're going to ask questions about everything, and to sever something so commonplace from the media they're given is just shortsighted imo. I'm not saying we should have characters make out on children's TV, but showing a diverse range of couples and people is vital to their own understanding of the world around them. Anything less is just highly selective and stunted.

[Niamh.]

:joker:Haha!My kids have'nt seen that.They like 'Cars' and 'Transformers' and 'Spiderman'

well how did you explain the talking cars? surely that's more confusing than gay couples :p

[Northern Monkey]

well how did you explain the talking cars? surely that's more confusing than gay couples :p

I say 'It's not real'.Can't exactly say that about gay couples can i?

[Northern Monkey]

How backward. Kids are going to ask about things anyway, and censoring things on the TV doesn't mean they're not going to say, see two men kiss on the street when they're little?

They're going to ask questions about everything, and to sever something so commonplace from the media they're given is just shortsighted imo. I'm not saying we should have characters make out on children's TV, but showing a diverse range of couples and people is vital to their own understanding of the world around them. Anything less is just highly selective and stunted.

I'd agree but i'd aim it a older kids.Not 3-4 year olds.

[Niamh.]

I say 'It's not real'.Can't exactly say that about gay couples can i?

So you would answer the question? Just like you'd answer the question about the gay couple lol You truly are making it a bigger issue than a kid would, I can guarantee you of that

[Braden]

I think it's important to include gay characters in children's books, TV & film. But it's equally as important to ensure that they're represented fairly & appropriately.

If done correctly, I personally believe that it's likely for younger people to grow up more tolerant.

[Northern Monkey]

So you would answer the question? Just like you'd answer the question about the gay couple lol You truly are making it a bigger issue than a kid would, I can guarantee you of that

But the gay couple question comes with loads more questions after all begining with 'why'.
Saying 'it's not real' ends it there and then.

[Niamh.]

I think it's important to include gay characters in children's books, TV & film. But it's equally as important to ensure that they're represented fairly & appropriately.

If done correctly, I personally believe that it's likely for younger people to grow up more tolerant.

Of course it is, I can see the difference hugely through my own children and their attitudes

[Niamh.]

But the gay couple question comes with loads more questions after all begining with 'why'.
Saying 'it's not real' ends it there and then.

I think "because they love eachother" would probably be enough for most kids and if not then they're probably the type of child who asks questions alot anyway. What are you going to do send them out in the world blind folded until they're at an age where you'll be ok to answer a few pretty simple questions? :laugh:

[Crimson Dynamo]

Isnt there a pink Power Ranger?

[Niamh.]

Isnt there a pink Power Ranger?

The Pink Power Ranger is a girl isn't she?

[Crimson Dynamo]

The Pink Power Ranger is a girl isn't she?


:suspect:

could be transgender

:nono: dont be so closed minded neem its 2015

[Niamh.]

:suspect:

could be transgender

:nono: dont be so closed minded neem its 2015

my apologies :laugh:

[Northern Monkey]

I think "because they love eachother" would probably be enough for most kids and if not then they're probably the type of child who asks questions alot anyway. What are you going to do send them out in the world blind folded until they're at an age where you'll be ok to answer a few pretty simple questions? :laugh:

I think that answer would suffice for a little bit until the next day when they would start asking why.:laugh:
I don't need kids TV to be forcing the issue on kids who are'nt even thinking about relationships yet.

[Niamh.]

I think that answer would suffice for a little bit until the next day when they would start asking why.:laugh:
I don't need kids TV to be forcing the issue on kids who are'nt even thinking about relationships yet.

If kids aren't even thinking about relationships yet then they probably wouldn't even notice a gay couple in a TV show, same as they probably don't think about straight couples in TV shows. I mean it's a Kids Tv show not a porn movie :laugh:

[Liam-]

I'm more concerned about kids seeing talking animals on tv and being disappointed when the family dog doesn't answer them back than them seeing a gay couple on Dora the Explorer

[Northern Monkey]

If kids aren't even thinking about relationships yet then they probably wouldn't even notice a gay couple in a TV show, same as they probably don't think about straight couples in TV shows. I mean it's a Kids Tv show not a porn movie :laugh:They would probably ask why those two daddies are kissing or getting married and say 'where's mummy?'
If they were'nt thinking about it then they certainly would be after seeing that and their brains getting all confused.
I stick by my opinion.You will never turn me:laugh:

[Niamh.]

They would probably ask why those two daddies are kissing or getting married and say 'where's mummy?'
If they were'nt thinking about it then they certainly would be after seeing that and their brains getting all confused.
I stick by my opinion.You will never turn me:laugh:

lol I think you need to give kids more credit tbh or less maybe hhhmmm as in I don't think most of them really care that much at all about romantic relationships, my 11 year old still blocks his eyes when people kiss on TV or when me and my husband kiss :laugh:

[Northern Monkey]

lol I think you need to give kids more credit tbh or less maybe hhhmmm as in I don't think most of them really care that much at all about romantic relationships, my 11 year old still blocks his eyes when people kiss on TV or when me and my husband kiss :laugh:
Well mine ask questions......Alot.For as many kids there are like yours there will be just as many like mine and many different to that.This is why i voted no.Maybe some 3 year olds would understand it but not all would.I think gay dudes on TV should be for older kids not 3 year olds and 4 year olds but that's jmo.

[Firewire]

People at 3-4 wouldn't even know what being gay and straight is. Programmes aimed at 3-4 years olds feature teletubbies and Mr Tumble.

[Niamh.]

Well mine ask questions......Alot.For as many kids there are like yours there will be just as many like mine and many different to that.This is why i voted no.Maybe some 3 year olds would understand it but not all would.I think gay dudes on TV should be for older kids but that's jmo.

I get that some kids would ask more questions, it just wouldn't bother me to answer those questions same way as I'd answer any other question and I think it would be beneficial to our society and most especially to gay people for kids to grow up not having a problem with gay people or thinking it was a taboo subject

[Northern Monkey]

People at 3-4 wouldn't even know what being gay and straight is. Programmes aimed at 3-4 years olds feature teletubbies and Mr Tumble.Good! And that's how it should stay!I don't wanna see Daddy Pig and Daddy Pig when i watch Peppa with my kids.It's fine how it is with Mummy Pig.

[Ammi]

..the thing is as well ..If those questions are asked then that's the perfect time for them to be asked and answered because the parent is the one there to give the answers and not someone else and they have the complete control over how they will answer, what their child's level of understanding is, no one knows better than a parent...but if they're not asked, then children go on thinking that male/female parents are the 'norm' ...and so and so through another young generation maybe ..?..when those children become parents themselves ...children ask, they ask anything because of their need to be informed...

[Northern Monkey]

I get that some kids would ask more questions, it just wouldn't bother me to answer those questions same way as I'd answer any other question and I think it would be beneficial to our society and most especially to gay people for kids to grow up not having a problem with gay people or thinking it was a taboo subject

Which they will...As they get older they will learn about all of these things and grow up to understand and tolerate everybody hopefully.
What you need to remember is that not all kids are the same and not all parents agree with you.If this ever did happen then hopefully there would atleast be a warning before the show so that parents could choose wether they want their kids to watch.

[Niamh.]

Which they will...As they get older they will learn about all of these things and grow up to understand and tolerate everybody hopefully.
What you need to remember is that not all kids are the same and not all parents agree with you.If this ever did happen then hopefully there would atleast be a warning before the show so that parents could choose wether they want their kids to watch.

Isn't that kind of breaching gay peoples human rights in a country where we're all supposed to be equal? Having to put a warning up?

[Northern Monkey]

Isn't that kind of breaching gay peoples human rights in a country where we're all supposed to be equal? Having to put a warning up?
Not putting a warning up is breaching parents rights.A warning could atleast let people make a decision about wether it is suitable viewing for their kids to watch.
How else could they do it?
People would just boycott these shows and complain like hell otherwise.

[Niamh.]

Not putting a warning up is breaching parents rights.A warning could atleast let people make a decision about wether it is suitable viewing for their kids to watch.
How else could they do it?
People would just boycott these shows and complain like hell otherwise.

A parent has the right to be homophobic? I don't think so.

[Smithy]

mr tumble is quite clearly a flaming homo this shouldn't be an issue tbh

[Northern Monkey]

A parent has the right to be homophobic? I don't think so.

What?A parent has the right to know what their kids are watching.

[Niamh.]

What?A parent has the right to know what their kids are watching.

yes, it's not gay pron........ if there is nothing wrong with homosexuals why would it be wrong to have a homosexual couple in a TV show same as having a straight couple

[Niamh.]

mr tumble is quite clearly a flaming homo this shouldn't be an issue tbh

also Tinky Winky :laugh:

[Will.]

Heres a list of all the Gay/Bi/Lesbo characters in TV.

I never knew Mateo from Benidorm was Bisexual

[Northern Monkey]

yes, it's not gay pron........ if there is nothing wrong with homosexuals why would it be wrong to have a homosexual couple in a TV show same as having a straight couple

Nothing wrong with it.When they're older and mature enough to understand.I think we are going round in circles.You are'nt going to change my mind.I will never be comfortable with my 3 year old learning about homosexual relationships from Disney cartoons.

[Ninastar]

Nothing wrong with it.When they're older and mature enough to understand.I think we are going round in circles.You are'nt going to change my mind.I will never be comfortable with my 3 year old learning about homosexual relationships from Disney cartoons.

And I personally believe that that is fair enough. I think that 3 is a little young if I'm totally honest. I think like you said earlier, 7+ is the right age to include gay relationships, if a show even has relationships at all.

[Northern Monkey]

And I personally believe that that is fair enough. I think that 3 is a little young if I'm totally honest. I think like you said earlier, 7+ is the right age to include gay relationships, if a show even has relationships at all.

Well yeah that's what think.I think when i was around 7 i knew quite alot tbh from people at school.I probably knew more than i should've.I already get questioned about everything from my eldest and the 'why? why? why?'s' about every little thing.I think at 3 he is not ready to learn about stuff like that yet.He's barely out of nappies.lol.

[Cal.]

wrong thread

[Daniel.]

Edit: Oh :suspect:

[letmein]

And I personally believe that that is fair enough. I think that 3 is a little young if I'm totally honest. I think like you said earlier, 7+ is the right age to include gay relationships, if a show even has relationships at all.

So you think that showing a child with parents who are of the same gender shouldn't be shown?

[letmein]

They would probably ask why those two daddies are kissing or getting married and say 'where's mummy?'
If they were'nt thinking about it then they certainly would be after seeing that and their brains getting all confused.
I stick by my opinion.You will never turn me:laugh:

Your opinion is pretty much irrelevant as the world has advanced beyond this. Gays and lesbians are exposed to children. Children are gays and lesbians. There really isn't even a debate. This isn't thread is nonsense.

[letmein]

..the thing is as well ..If those questions are asked then that's the perfect time for them to be asked and answered because the parent is the one there to give the answers and not someone else and they have the complete control over how they will answer, what their child's level of understanding is, no one knows better than a parent...but if they're not asked, then children go on thinking that male/female parents are the 'norm' ...and so and so through another young generation maybe ..?..when those children become parents themselves ...children ask, they ask anything because of their need to be informed...

People like Northern Monkey are the type that believe in babying their children, raising them to be wimps, wrapping them in bubble wrap so that the poor things can't possibly be exposed to the world around them.

[Ninastar]

So you think that showing a child with parents who are of the same gender shouldn't be shown?

People like Northern Monkey are the type that believe in babying their children, raising them to be wimps, wrapping them in bubble wrap so that the poor things can't possibly be exposed to the world around them.

You just made two assumptions there, both of which are not true. Did I say that two parents of the same gender shouldn't be shown? No. I didn't say that at all. I think kids shows should show all kids of families, not matter what age. But from 7+ is the only right age to go more into the 'relationship' aspect of gay families/people/whatever

[lostalex]

all the figures I have ever seen is 5%

all of the figures you have seen are inaccurate. if you include anyone who has any kind of same sex attraction or experience, the numbers go up significantly. the true number of people who are not 100% straight is much much higher.

[lostalex]

Ah but not all children would say 'oh right ok'.Some are much more inquisitive.
Some need a reason for everything.'why do some boys love boys and some girls love girls and which should i love?'.Confusing for kids.

everything is confusing to kids. and if they ask, you should tell them that it's okay for them to want to kiss boys or girls, and that some people like boys, and some like girls, and some like both. and that there is no difference between it.

It's actually an excellent teaching opportunity. it's the perfect opportunity to tell them that they shouldn't feel like they have to like girls just because most people do, and that they should be open to any feelings they have, and not feel ashamed of feelings they have for other boys or girls.

[armand.kay]

so my brother was watching CN before school and..
http://i.imgur.com/UwkWjrP.jpg?1http://i.imgur.com/0I3F417.jpg?1

[user104658]

Well mine ask questions......Alot.For as many kids there are like yours there will be just as many like mine and many different to that.This is why i voted no.Maybe some 3 year olds would understand it but not all would.I think gay dudes on TV should be for older kids not 3 year olds and 4 year olds but that's jmo.

I guess this is only an issue if you don't have any gay friends... my (5 year old) daughter knows about homosexual relationships because one of my oldest and best friends is gay. She was dancing the night away with them at a wedding last month :joker:.

I guess that's why I find the censorship of homosexuality on TV not only unfair, but pointless. It's a thing. You can't censor the real world, so your best bet is just to do your best to explain it.

[Niamh.]

I guess this is only an issue if you don't have any gay friends... my (5 year old) daughter knows about homosexual relationships because one of my oldest and best friends is gay. She was dancing the night away with them at a wedding last month :joker:.

I guess that's why I find the censorship of homosexuality on TV not only unfair, but pointless. It's a thing. You can't censor the real world, so your best bet is just to do your best to explain it.

Exactly

[Kizzy]

http://images.canberratimes.com.au/2015/09/16/6853317/Article%20Lead%20-%20narrow1000484426gjnuqtimage.related.articleLead Narrow.353x0.gjnuq2.png1442375846085.jpg-300x0.jpg

How you going to explain this NM? :hehe:

[Crimson Dynamo]

I guess this is only an issue if you don't have any gay friends... my (5 year old) daughter knows about homosexual relationships because one of my oldest and best friends is gay. She was dancing the night away with them at a wedding last month :joker:.

I guess that's why I find the censorship of homosexuality on TV not only unfair, but pointless. It's a thing. You can't censor the real world, so your best bet is just to do your best to explain it.

Indeed. My parents have been (were) involved in light opera all my life and various choirs and singing groups so I grew up amid theatres watching like 7 Oklahomas in a row when they could not get babysitters and having rehearsals at home like 24fecking7 and subsequently there were lots of gay men who were pals of my parents and still are so my mum being a blunt woman just told me the truth about Ken and Michael from an early age and i never thought too much about it

Not that I am saying gay men and light opera go hand and hand

But they seem to :suspect:


Funnily enough I cant think of a musical with a gay character :think:

[armand.kay]

Funnily enough I cant think of a musical with a gay character :think:
I'm disgusted by the straightwashing tbh

[user104658]

There's not much to say! Just

"Well, you know how men and women can be in love and want to be together?"
"Yeah... "
"Well a man and a man can want to be together too, or a woman and a woman."
"Oh. Can they have babies?"
"Not together, only a man and a woman can have a baby, but they could adopt a baby. "
"Ooooh."

Any follow up questions are really just solved with honesty... Kids will understand pretty much anything if you explain it well!

Although the adoption thing opened a can of worms. She was quite upset by the idea of people having babies and then not wanting them... But that is pretty upsetting I suppose. We had already had that conversation, because she watched the start of "Elf" and declared it instantly "the worst and saddest film ever" because baby Will Farrell was in an orphanage...

[mizzy25]

Great question I would say yes there should be gay people in kids films. Personally I would say for older kids as young kids wouldn't really know what it was all about.

[Niamh.]

Great question I would say yes there should be gay people in kids films. Personally I would say for older kids as young kids wouldn't really know what it was all about.

Thing is, if there was a gay couple in a very young kids film they probably wouldn't even notice that they were a couple but that's the whole point I think, they would still be exposed to seeing it whether they understood it or not and it would be seen as just normal stuff they'll come across in everyday life. Instead of saying all of a sudden when they hit 8 we'll start putting these characters into their movies that they will notice, that makes it seem odd and not true to real life, if you know what I mean? I mean new babies feature in kids movies, that doesn't mean that kids will suddenly start asking where the baby came from and how it was made etc, it's something they'll start wondering about later and asking about later, sure some kids may start to wonder earlier than others, that doesn't mean we start cutting new babies from childrens films

[Black Dagger]

Indeed. My parents have been (were) involved in light opera all my life and various choirs and singing groups so I grew up amid theatres watching like 7 Oklahomas in a row when they could not get babysitters and having rehearsals at home like 24fecking7 and subsequently there were lots of gay men who were pals of my parents and still are so my mum being a blunt woman just told me the truth about Ken and Michael from an early age and i never thought too much about it

Not that I am saying gay men and light opera go hand and hand

But they seem to :suspect:


Funnily enough I cant think of a musical with a gay character :think:

Rent?

[armand.kay]

Thing is, if there was a gay couple in a very young kids film they probably wouldn't even notice that they were a couple but that's the whole point I think, they would still be exposed to seeing it whether they understood it or not and it would be seen as just normal stuff they'll come across in everyday life. Instead of saying all of a sudden when they hit 8 we'll start putting these characters into their movies that they will notice, that makes it seem odd and not true to real life, if you know what I mean? I mean new babies feature in kids movies, that doesn't mean that kids will suddenly start asking where the baby came from and how it was made etc, it's something they'll start wondering about later and asking about later, sure some kids may start to wonder earlier than others, that doesn't mean we start cutting new babies from childrens films
It can be as simple as having a kid with two moms also kids are not as stupid as people in hear are making out simply explaining to them that sometimes girls and girls or boys and boys marry each other would do the trick.

[Niamh.]

It can be as simple as having a kid with two moms also kids are not as stupid as people in hear are making out simply explaining to them that sometimes girls and girls or boys and boys marry each other would do the trick.

Absolutely and kids are a whole lot more accepting than adults are in general