There are many benefits of same-sex parenting Research has shown that there were no significant differences between children raised in gay households and those in opposite-sex households. However, researchers find there are many benefits of same-sex parenting. In fact, gay parenting offers opportunities for children to learn tolerance and skills for dealing with adversity. Same-sex parenting isn’t an accident About 50% of the pregnancies that occur between members of opposite-sex encounters or relationships are accidental. When a gay individual or couple decides to become parents, it is a motivated, conscious decision. Adoption or fostering is an option for some gay adults. However, there are those who wish to have a child with a biological connection, and surrogacy is a viable option. Same-sex households rely on their strengths When it comes to raising children, a study focusing on two-father households where both are working shows that they rely on childcare facilities, babysitters, housekeepers or relatives for support, just like opposite-sex families do. But when it comes to taking on responsibilities as parents, they tend to base it on each other’s strengths and skills, rather than following the social constructs of who is more “motherly” or “fatherly.” Same-sex parenting offers the children a clear understanding of love, familial responsibility and equitable relationships. This is just one of many benefits of same-sex parenting. Same-sex parents have higher involvement Historically, same-sex parents have been overlooked in their children’s educational environments. According to a 2008 study focusing on the experiences of LGBT parents and their children within school environments, many have experienced bias. However, the study found that not only are LGBT parents an asset for their school communities, they were also more likely to be involved and engaged in their children’s day-to-day educational life. Other researchers who’ve found similar results say that this increased presence may be due to gay parents’ focus on asserting same-sex visibility, inclusion and counter-bias. By being more active with their children’s schools, they increase opportunities for positive interactions with school officials and other parents and show active support for their children’s education. These parents often serve as class parents, volunteers, serve in PTA groups and on school boards. And, there is little question that children benefit greatly from a parent’s presence and interest in their school activities and education. Same-sex parents raise well-adjusted kids Medical, psychological and social welfare professionals have developed the consensus that children raised in healthy same-sex households are as well-adjusted as those raised by heterosexual parents. This is one of the biggest benefits of same-sex parenting. According to the American Psychological Association, “the adjustment, development, and psychological well-being” of children is unrelated to parental sexual orientation. Children thrive and benefit from happy, healthy environments where they feel safe, secure and loved. Numerous studies have found that children of gay parents and children of straight parents show few differences in achievement, mental health and social functioning. Another study found that daughters raised by gay fathers showed less anxiety and stress than daughters raised in heterosexual families. Gay parenting demonstrates diversity There is little question that children living with same-sex parents sometimes feel “different” than their peers. However, researchers found that these children had a better understanding of the diversity of families that exist in the world. Despite encountering adversity due to having LGBT parents, studies show that these children have greater resilience in navigating difficult situations. They also had positive perceptions about their families. Gay parents raise confident children A 2006 study examined the children in planned lesbian families, in both single-lesbian households and lesbian-couple households. Researchers found no differences between these children and those who were born into heterosexual households with regard to their development and social behavior. However, they did find that these children showed more confidence than those with heterosexual parents. Greater self-esteem was likely the result of a greater level of active involvement by the gay parents. Surrogacy for LGBT individuals and couples The Center for Surrogate Parenting has worked with same-sex intended parents since 1989. Approximately 33% of our clients are gay. Regardless of sexual orientation, we provide guidance for singles and couples through the surrogacy process. Our philosophy is that every intended parent should have the opportunity to realize their dreams of having a child. We have gay-friendly surrogates who share that philosophy. For more information about our surrogacy services, please visit our website: www.creatingfamilies.com or call us at 818-788-8288.