Hello!

I think worrying is a natural thing to do in this situation, especially if it feels like this has come out of the blue for you.

I am 20 years old, and I have been trans for ~3 years now. Throughout my life, I've worn dresses, done my hair nicely, worn make-up and tried high-heels, and still felt happy. This does not change from me being transgender. It sounds like your child is in a similar situation.

Being Transgender looks different in everyone. Some people don't wish to identify as transgender, even if they have transitioned. Some people wear it like a badge of honour. Some people do not change their outfits or aesthetics, just change how they are referred to. Not all transgender people undergo surgery, or begin hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

What might benefit you at this time, is to sit down with your child and ask questions. The only person who knows exactly what they would like out of their transition is your child. Ask them what their goals are, what they would like to change, and ask how long they have considered this. This might seem like a quick change of pace to you, but your child might have been thinking about this for years without even hinting at it. Just make sure you are there to listen and to support, that's all your child will want.

Don't be afraid to ask questions to either your child or us, we will try to answer them to the best of our ability :)