Shopping for a kid’s clothes is already a lot. Helping your kid find their style, clothes that fit them as they grow, things that aren’t too expensive… parents, you already have so many challenges, and we feel you.

And now you get to have the extra “fun” challenge of supporting your gender-diverse kid navigate a whole new world of gender-affirming clothing. Shopping for gender-affirming clothing like binders, gaffs, and swimwear for a child or teenager? That’s a whole different kind of a lot.

There isn’t much clear guidance out there, and what does exist is often written for adults or framed around crisis instead of everyday life. Especially with all the propaganda rhetoric out there that fear-mongers the idea of supporting gender-diverse youth. 

But we PROMISE, you’re not alone, it’s not as scary as it seems, and we’re here to help you figure it out! You love your kid; that’s the only thing you need to start.

Your situation isn’t rare, either. A 2016 survey of over 80,000 adolescents found that nearly 1 in 30 identified as transgender or gender nonconforming. There are a lot of parents of transgender children and teens who are navigating this right now!

The first thing you need to know about supporting your gender-diverse child- Start with the kid, not the garment

Before you look at a single product, start with a conversation. Being gender-diverse means that the “normal” rules of what applies to a kid’s gender don’t apply. So you need to help them figure out what feels good to them specifically.

What does your child want their body to feel like? What’s uncomfortable right now? Do they want a flatter chest? More coverage? To tuck? To feel less visible in some situations, or more visible in others?

Kids and teens often know exactly what they need; they just haven’t always had the language or the permission to say it out loud. Give them both.

Research from Université de Montréal found that trans youth seeking gender-affirming care had a clear and consistent sense of their gender identity, even when they didn’t yet have the words for it. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that most children have a stable sense of their gender identity by age four.

Your child isn’t confused. They may just need the language and the tools (and the support!) to match what they already know.

What gender-affirming clothing means for children and teenagers

Most mainstream media jump to so many conclusions about what gender-affirming care means for youth. They jump straight to the conclusion that parents are immediately giving their children drastic surgeries, but affirming your gender is actually just a normal part of life. Cis people do it every single day! 

Wearing affirming clothing simply means wearing something that makes you feel more like yourself in your body. Cis women do it every time they put on makeup or a nice dress to feel more womanly. For a cis man, he might choose a suit or a certain cut of clothing. Hairstyles, jewelry, makeup, types of clothing cuts, these are all things that affirm someone’s gender, and for young people, that’s no different. So first off, letting your kid play with types of clothing that may be “gendered” is a great way to let them express themselves. 

Secondly, some (but not all) gender-diverse people may experience what’s called “gender dysphoria,” which simply means that they feel uncomfortable with some of the sex characteristics that their body is expressing. So things like breast tissue or external genitalia may make them uncomfortable in their body, because it doesn’t align with how they feel about themselves. 

That’s where compression garments come in. Things like gaffs and binders compress tissue to give someone a silhouette that better aligns with how they feel about themselves. It helps relieve that dysphoria, and also can help them feel more comfortable in social situations. 

For some, it’s a gender-affirming binder that lets them get through a school day without thinking about their chest. For others, it’s tucking underwear or a gaff that allows them to swim or change in a locker room without anxiety. For others, it’s simply underwear that fits their body in a way that feels right.

Every transgender child and a trans teenager will have different needs, because they’re unique individuals. Gender affirmation isn’t one-size-fits-all, and it doesn’t require a diagnosis or approval to access clothing that helps them feel comfortable.

So let’s summarize what we’ve learned so far:

How to support your gender-diverse or trans kid with clothing

• Clothing is a safe, non-medical way for kids to explore identity

• Start with open conversations about comfort, identity, and self-expression before buying clothing

• Research shows kids have a clear sense of gender identity from a young age, so listen to them when they tell you what they need

• Everyday items of “gendered” clothing or accessories can help your kid feel affirmed in their gender, so let them explore

• Compression garments like binders, gaffs, and inclusive underwear can help relieve gender dysphoria

• Gender-affirming clothing is not one-size-fits-all. Every child’s needs, comfort levels, and identity are unique

Understanding compression garments for your trans or gender diverse child or teen

Compression garments are designed to gently reshape the body to better align with how someone feels inside. For many trans and gender-diverse youth, it can be a simple, non-medical way to feel more comfortable and confident in everyday life.

There are two main types of gender-affirming compression garments to know about:

• Binders are typically used by transmasculine or nonbinary youth who want a flatter chest. They work by compressing chest tissue to create a smoother silhouette under clothing.

• Gaffs (or tucking underwear) are often used by transfeminine or nonbinary youth to create a flatter front by holding external genitalia in place.

Not every young person will want or need compression garments, and that’s completely okay. For those who do, the goal isn’t perfection, it’s comfort. The right garment should help your child move through their day with less distraction, less dysphoria, and more ease in their body. And they should also be safe!

Everything you need to know about BINDERS for your transmasc or nonbinary child or teen

Rule 1- Make sure you get the right size binder for your kid: Measure, don’t guess!

Getting the right size is one of the most important parts of buying a binder. We’re going to say that again: the right size binder is the main thing that will keep your child healthy and safe while binding. It can be tempting to guess based on clothing size or age, but binders don’t work that way. Accurate measurements are what keep your child safe and comfortable.

To measure, wrap a soft measuring tape around the fullest part of the chest. It should sit flat against the body, snug but not tight. You’re looking for a true measurement, not the smallest number possible.

Key guidelines to keep in mind while measuring your child or teen for a binder:

• A smaller binder does not mean better results. It can restrict breathing, cause pain, and put pressure on your child’s growing ribs and lungs

• If your child is between sizes, sizing up is always the safer choice

• Bodies change quickly during growth, so re-measure every few months

• If your child struggles to fit standard sizes, custom sizing can make a huge difference in both comfort and safety. (We do free custom sizing at Origami Customs specifically for enhanced safety!)

A well-sized binder should feel supportive, not suffocating. If your child is constantly adjusting it, avoiding wearing it, or complaining of discomfort, that’s often a sign the size isn’t right.

What type of binder should you get for your child or teen?

There are so many types and brands of binders these days, that it can be hard to know what to choose! So here are some guidelines to follow. 

We want to be clear that yes, binding is absolutely safe when done correctly, even for young people! (Check out our FULL GUIDE on how to safely wear and use binders) But choosing the right binder is less about flattening as much as possible and more about helping your child move through their day not only without dysphoria, but also without distraction or pain.

A properly fitting, gender-affirming binder should allow your child to:

• Take full, deep breaths without strain

• Move their arms freely, including reaching overhead

• Sit, stand, and go about a full school day without discomfort

• Not cause back or rib pain

• One thing we often recommend is working up in binder compression levels. We offer different types of compression so that your child can either start with lower compression or wear lower compression binders on days their body needs a bit of a break.

That’s the baseline. Anything tighter than that isn’t more effective; it’s just more restrictive and will affect long-term health. 

What to look for in a safe binder:

• Soft, breathable fabrics: These help prevent overheating and irritation, especially for all-day wear under clothing (Origami Customs binders are made entirely of powermesh, so the binder is completely breathable. It’s even safe enough to work out in!) 

• Even compression: Look for binders that distribute the pressure across the torso instead of concentrating it in one spot. Older style binders have a flat non-stretch panel in front, and we honestly can’t safely recommend that style because it compresses the ribs and lungs on growing bodies. (That’s why we make our binders completely of stretch materials!) 

• The right cut for their body: Some kids prefer full-length binders that feel more like a tank top, while others are more comfortable in shorter styles, some like racerbacks, some like bra-ike straps. Test to see what works. 

Comfort is personal. Let your child have a say in what feels best for them.

What to avoid in chest binding for kids and teens:

• Ace bandages or elastic wraps. We cannot stress this one enough. Please do not let your kid use them. The extreme tightness and type of compression of using bandages causes rib and lung damage over time. 

• Tape that isn’t specifically designed for skin. It will cause skin irritation and damage over time. However, tape that is made for skin is completely safe when used properly!

• DIY methods that tightly restrict the chest, like stacking sports bras

• Doubling up on binding methods, like wearing two binders at once

• Binder designs that have uneven compression and restrict the chest in ways that affect breathing and mobility

These options might seem accessible, but they can cause real harm, especially for growing bodies. Restricted breathing, bruising, and even rib damage are real risks. 

What about chest binders for younger kids (like 10–13 year olds)?

Many parents ask us, “Is it safe to bind for my 12-year-old?” or “should I wait to let my young child wear a chest binder,” and the answer comes down to the same principles: fit, comfort, and supervision.

A younger child can safely wear a chest binder for kids as long as:

• It fits properly (never sized down)

• They can breathe and move comfortably

• Wearing time is limited and monitored

• You keep measuring them for the correct fit as they grow

At this age, bodies are changing quickly, so custom-sized and high-stretch binders for children are often the safest option. We honestly completely stand by the safety of our binders for younger kids, because the biggest priority in our binder designs is safety. We would NEVER want someone to bind at the expense of their health over time. 

We also offer different compression levels of our binders, so if you’re concerned, start your kid with a low compression level, like our soft binder, to see how it feels for them.

Safe chest binding practices for your child or teen

Fit matters more than compression

Can we say this one enough? Always choose a binder based on correct measurements. Avoid sizing down or layering multiple binders, as this adds pressure that growing bodies aren’t built to handle safely.

Build in regular breaks

There’s no single “perfect” number of hours that works for everyone, but moderation is key. Many teens can safely wear a binder for up to 8–10 hours, sometimes up to 12, depending on the garment and their body. What matters most is paying attention to how it feels.

Encourage your child to:

• Start slow when learning to bind. 

• Take breaks every 4–5 hours when possible

• Remove the binder if they feel tightness, fatigue, or discomfort

• Have regular binder-free time at home or on lower-dysphoria days

• Never bind during rest or high strain

• Binders should always come off for sleep. The body needs time to fully relax and breathe deeply.

• It’s also best to avoid binding during intense physical activity (although our binders are exercise safe!)

• Don’t bind on long travel days or flights, when breathing and circulation can already be under stress.

Support the body after wearing a binder

Once the binder comes off, gentle care goes a long way. Light stretching, moving the shoulders and chest, or even a quick self-massage can help restore circulation and reduce muscle tension.

Take care of the skin

Binders sit close to the skin for long periods, so hygiene matters:

• Wash the binder regularly to prevent irritation

• Shower after wearing when possible to reduce acne or rashes

• Moisturize to keep skin healthy and resilient

Extra safety considerations for chest binding

 If your child has a respiratory condition like asthma, binding may be more challenging and should be approached with extra caution. Talk to your gender-affirming health care professional about managing risks.

At the end of the day, safe binding isn’t about strict rules; it’s about awareness. The goal is to give your child a tool that helps them feel more at ease in their body, while still protecting their health as they grow. Open communication and helping your child try things out to see how they feel is the best way to go about this.

Head to our Ultimate Guide to Binding to learn everything you wanted to know about the different styles of binders, how to put them on, how to care for them, and so much more! 

Everything you need to know about GAFFS and tucking underwear for your transfemme or nonbinary child or teen

If your transfemme or nonbinary child is self-conscious about having external genitalia, just know that you’re not alone! Compressing that area is an extremely common practice and is generally considered very low-risk for most bodies. Compression will easily help your child get the silhouette that feels more aligned with their body, and allow them to comfortably wear tighter and more “feminine” clothing. 

The Difference Between Tucking and Gaffing

Tucking and gaffing are often talked about as if they’re the same thing, but they’re actually two different parts of a similar process. Both things smooth out the genitalia and can safely be used together or separately. At its core, tucking is a method, and a gaff is a support system. One is something you do, the other is something you wear to make it easier and more comfortable.

Tucking is a technique

Tucking refers to gently pushing the penis and testicles back and positioning them between the legs and the inguinal canal. This makes it less visible under clothing. The position of the genitalia is then held in place either through a body safe tape or through a gaff. Some people tuck more fully, others take a more relaxed approach depending on comfort, and many switch between both depending on their dysphoria or the outfits they’re wearing.

Gaffing is a garment

A gaff (or tucking underwear) is a specially designed garment that helps hold everything in place. It’s made from a tightly woven and breathable stretch material that provides compression and structure. On its own, a gaff will compress the genitalia, and many people find that gaffing on its own offers enough support. 

If someone chooses to tuck, then a gaff is often worn on top to easily hold everything where it’s supposed to stay. You can also use tape, but you do have to remove it when you use the facilities, so many people opt for a gaff as an option that offers easier adjustment. 

Learn everything you want to know about how to tuck and gaff in our giant 101 GUIDE on Tucking and Gaffing and learn how to choose between which method is right for your child in our blog about Wearing a Gaff With or Without a Tuck.

For kids and teens, the focus should always be on comfort and simplicity:

• Not everyone who tucks will use a gaff

• Not everyone who wears a gaff will tuck fully

• There’s no “correct” way to do either

Some youth may prefer just the smoothing effect of a gaff without actively tucking. Others may tuck only in certain situations. It’s all about what helps them feel most at ease in their body.

How to Choose a Compression Gaff for Your Child or Teen

Choosing the right gaff is a bit like finding the right pair of shoes. If it fits well, your child can move through their day without thinking about it. If it doesn’t, they’ll feel it constantly.

Start with comfort first

Comfort should always come before appearance. Look for:

• Soft, breathable fabrics that reduce irritation (we offer a completely breathable powermesh)

• Stretch that moves with the body, not against it, and no flattening panels that compress without stretch (yes, we fit that bill too)

• Seamless or low-profile designs to prevent chafing under clothing (all our gaffs are seamless with multiple designs to choose from!)

If it feels scratchy, stiff, or overly tight when they try it on, it’s not the right one.

Get the right level of compression

Not all gaffs are the same. Some offer light smoothing, while others provide firmer compression.

• Light to medium compression is usually best for everyday wear, especially for younger or first-time users

• Higher compression might be useful for specific outfits, but shouldn’t be the default

Too much compression can cause discomfort or circulation issues, while too little may not provide the support they’re looking for.

A well-fitting gaff is key

A well-fitting gaff should feel snug and secure, but never tight or restrictive.

• It should stay in place without constant adjusting

• It shouldn’t dig into the skin or create pressure points

• It should allow for normal movement, sitting, and walking

If it leaves marks, causes discomfort, or shifts a lot, it’s likely not the right size or style.

Choose a gaff style that matches their life (and clothing choices)

Different styles work better for different needs:

• Full coverage (like boyshorts or hipsters): Best for all-day comfort and beginners

• Minimal styles (like thongs or cheekys): Better for tighter clothing where visibility matters

There’s no one “best” style; it depends on what your child is wearing and what makes them feel most at ease.

Think about daily activities

A gaff that works for lounging at home might not be the same one they want for school or swimming.

• For everyday wear: prioritize breathability and comfortability

• For active days or sports: look for designs that stay in place, are breathable, and move easily

• For swimwear: choose gaffs or suits specifically designed for water (all of ours are!) and that can fit under the chosen swimwear

Matching the garment to the situation makes a big difference in comfort and confidence.

Keep it simple, especially at the start

If your child is new to tucking or gaffing, start with something easy:

• A soft, full-coverage style

• Moderate compression

• A familiar underwear-like feel

They can always explore different options later as they figure out what works best for their body.

At the end of the day, the “right” gaff isn’t the one that creates the flattest look. It’s the one your child forgets they’re wearing, because it simply feels like them.

Check out our page on How to Choose the Right Gaff for You, for more info on the benefits and uses of the types of gaff styles.

Safety Considerations for Youth Tucking and Gaffing

Tucking and wearing a gaff can be a safe and helpful way for many trans and gender-diverse youth to feel more comfortable in their bodies. Like any sort of compression practice, the key is approaching it with care, good information, and attention to how the body feels.

Comfort is your first indicator

Tucking should never be painful. A well-fitting gaff should feel snug and supportive, but not tight, pinching, or restrictive. If your child feels pressure, numbness, or discomfort, it’s a sign to adjust or take a break.

There’s no need to aim for a perfectly flat appearance. Comfort and ease should always come first, and listening to your own body is key.

Fit matters more than firmness

Choosing the right size is essential. A gaff that’s too tight can create pressure and irritation, while one that’s too loose won’t provide support and may lead to constant adjusting. (That’s why we offer custom sizing for FREE!) 

Avoid layering multiple pairs or sizing down to increase compression. More pressure does not mean better results; it just increases the risk of things like skin damage.

Limit wear time and build in breaks

Like any compression garment, gaffs shouldn’t be worn 24/7.

Encourage your child to:

• Take breaks throughout the day when possible

• Remove the garment if they feel discomfort or fatigue

• Have regular gaff-free time, especially at home

There’s no strict hourly limit that fits everyone, but moderation and body awareness are key.

Never wear a gaff during sleep

Gaffs should always be removed before bed. The body needs time to fully relax and recover without compression.

Be mindful of gaffing during physical activity

For sports, long travel days, or highly active situations, it may be more comfortable and safer to skip tucking or choose a lower-compression option. Movement, heat, and friction can increase irritation.

Protect the skin while gaffing

Because gaffs fit closely to the body, skin care matters:

• Choose soft, breathable fabrics to reduce friction

• Change and wash garments regularly

• Shower after extended wear when possible

• Watch for signs of irritation like redness, chafing, or rashes

If irritation occurs, take a break until the skin has fully healed.

Go slowly, especially at the beginning

If your child is new to tucking, it can take time to figure out what feels right. Starting with shorter wear times and simpler styles can help them build comfort and confidence without overwhelming their body.

Check in and keep communication open.

Every body is different, and needs can change over time. Keeping an open, judgment-free conversation with your child helps them feel supported and makes it easier to spot when something isn’t working.

At the end of the day, tucking and gaffing should make your child’s life feel easier, not harder. With the right fit, good habits, and a focus on comfort, it can be a safe and affirming part of their routine.

Gender-affirming swimwear for kids and teens

Swimming comes up a lot, and for good reason.

Swimming can be a major source of anxiety for gender-diverse youth. Not being able to join in without worrying about how their body looks or what their swimsuit reveals can impact their confidence and sense of inclusion.

That’s where tucking-friendly swimwear comes in. Options like gaff-style bikini bottoms or swimsuits with built-in compression panels are designed to stay secure in the water while maintaining comfort. Many people also find that layering a discreet gaff under a bathing suit is a great option. 

For older trasmasc or nonbinary young people who have started developing chest tissue, you can also opt for a swim-safe binder or a compressive swim top (all our tops are made with compressive power mesh) while swimming. Just make sure it's won't restrict breathing and gives enough mobiity enough to swim in (and yes, all of ours fit the bill!) 

For many young people, this can make the difference between sitting on the sidelines and actually getting to enjoy the experience. Read about how your queer body IS a beach body, and everything you need to know about tucking and gaffing while swimming in our handy dandy blogs about it!

Added FAQ’s about getting gender-affirming clothing for your child

Where to buy gender-affirming clothing for young people

The market for gender-affirming clothing for children and teens is still limited, so it’s worth being selective. Obviously, we’re going to tell you that we’re here to support your needs because we’ve worked really hard to make sure that our products support young people. 

But whether you buy from us or not, we encourage you to look for brands that:

• Design specifically for youth bodies (not just smaller adult sizes)

• Construct their garments to focus on comfort, stretch, and breathability 

• Are transparent about materials and construction

• Offer custom sizing

• Offer other customization, like gusetts 

• Provide community support and education

Do you need a doctor’s approval to purchase gaffs or binders for your child?

No. Binders and gaffs are garments, not prescriptions, so you don’t need a doctor’s approval to purchase them for your child.

That said, if your child has any underlying health considerations, such as asthma, scoliosis, or other respiratory or musculoskeletal conditions, it can be helpful to check in with a healthcare provider. They can offer guidance on safe fit, wear time, and any extra precautions to keep in mind.

What do medical experts say about gender affirmation for young people?

The gender-affirming model of care, which focuses on supporting and respecting a young person’s gender identity, is widely endorsed by major medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics. This approach recognizes that affirming a child’s identity, including through clothing, supports their overall well-being and mental health.

If a healthcare provider dismisses your child’s needs or offers guidance that doesn’t align with this approach, you are absolutely allowed to seek a second opinion. Your child deserves care that is informed, respectful, and supportive.

Are gender-affirming garments covered by insurance?

Coverage varies widely by provider, plan, and region. Some plans do cover binders and compression garments when prescribed by a physician. It's worth calling your insurance provider directly and asking specifically about "gender-affirming compression garments."

What if I can't afford gender-affirming garments for my child? 

Our Community Program distributes FREE, gender-affiring garments through partnerships with over 100 NGOs, clinics, and grassroots organizations worldwide. If cost is a barrier, reach out or ask your local LGBTQ+ organization if they're a partner.

Navigating resources and support

For families in places where laws and policies around trans youth are changing, it can be helpful to stay informed. Organizations like The Human Rights Campaign and PFLAG provide up-to-date information on rights and protections, while tools like the MAP Equality Maps can help you understand what applies in your area. We also have huge lists of resources for both the United States and Canada.

At the end of the day, you don’t need permission to support your child. You just need the right information to do it safely and confidently.

Thanks for Being Here

You’re doing lasting, important work.

For many transgender and gender-diverse children and teens, something as simple as a well-fitting binder or gaff isn’t small. It can shape how they move through the world, how they show up at school, with friends, in their own body. It can be the difference between participating in their life and sitting quietly on the sidelines.

And having a parent or guardian that’s supporting them through this process is a GAME CHANGER. It quite literally changes the stats on mental health, happiness, and survival.

The fact that you’re here, reading this, asking questions, trying to understand and get it right, that matters more than you probably realize. You don’t have to have all the answers. Showing up with care, curiosity, and a willingness to listen is already doing so much.

This isn’t about getting everything perfect. It’s about building trust, creating safety, and giving your child the space to be fully themselves. You’re doing great, we think you’re amazing, and we’re here for you!

Extra Resources

We know we gave you so many resources in this blog already, but here are just a few more!

Guide for Parents — Transgender Map Stats, research, and plain-language education to help you understand gender-diverse youth. A good first stop.

Resources for Caregivers of Trans and Nonbinary Youth — HRC Parents for Transgender Equality Network A national network empowering parents to connect, organize, and advocate for their trans and nonbinary kids.

Gender Creative Kids Resource Guide Youth resources specifically for families in Canada — books, tools, and guidance for raising gender-creative kids.

Community Acceptance Resource List — Movement Advancement Project A resource list for parents and educators of gender-diverse children, with state-by-state equality data and advocacy tools.

Support groups and community

Gender Spectrum Support groups for parents, grandparents, and dads of gender-diverse kids, plus resources for families and schools. Monthly virtual gatherings with experienced facilitators.

TransFamilies Support Groups A regularly updated list of current and upcoming support groups for families of trans individuals.

Gender Diversity Educational support and advocacy for families, schools, and healthcare providers working with gender-diverse youth.

Trans Youth Equality Foundation Education, advocacy, and support for gender-nonconforming children and youth and their families — including resources for parents, educators, and healthcare providers, plus a summer camp program.

COLAGE — Kids of Trans Resource Guide Support specifically for kids who have trans parents — a less commonly addressed perspective that deserves its own space.

Local (Montreal)

Head & Hands / À Deux Mains Free medical, legal, and counselling services for youth ages 12–25 in Montreal, regardless of health insurance status. A community institution since 1970.

Research

"I knew that I wasn't cis, I knew that, but I didn't know exactly" — Pullen Sansfaçon et al., International Journal of Transgender Health (2020) Peer-reviewed research on gender identity development in youth accessing gender-affirming care, out of Université de Montréal and McGill. Open access.