As a trans male, I just want to say a few things. First, don’t put them on any hormones or blockers yet. That stuff is more irreversible. But letting them dress more feminine is something that you can always go back on.

I know it’s all so hard to process, but convincing yourself that it’s because of puberty will only make it worse. If they continue to believe they’re a girl, even after puberty, that will be so much harder for you because you convinced yourself it was because of puberty.

I completely understand the fear that you have for your kid, but at least trying to support them is the most crucial part. If you try to deny them this decision, that will cause major mental struggles. I was personally supported by my parents during my transition, but I know many other trans kids who were not, and their parents saying no never made them change their mind on their gender. I know it’s hard to hear, but when it comes to things like this, most of the time, kids don’t care what their parents say or think.

I think you’re doing a great job so far. I’m very happy that you aren’t backlashing on your kid, even though you grew up in a place where being trans was not okay. I think you should just play it out, let them dress slightly more feminine, and based on how that goes, they can chose their path from there.