“They Didn’t Have Out There Gay Parents—They Just Looked Like Normal Regular Parents”: Investigating Teachers’ Approaches to Addressing Same‐Sex Parenting and Non‐normative Sexuality in the Elementary School Classroom

Abstract

In this article we draw on queer theoretical and critical literacy perspectives to investigate elementary school teachers’ pedagogical approaches to addressing same‐ sex parenting and non‐normative sexuality in the elementary classroom. Through undertaking case study research, we examine two Australian elementary school teachers’ reflections on using literacy resources in their classrooms which include representations of same‐sex families/relationships. Our overall aim in reporting on this study is to provide further insight into the pedagogical potential for interrupting heteronormativity in the elementary school classroom and within the broader context of English education. Implications of the research for pre‐service teacher education and for the professional learning of teachers more generally are outlined.