Many public elementary schools in the United States offer books containing material focused on gender ideology and LGBTQ+ themes. In 2025, the Supreme Court ruled that parents in Maryland have the right to opt their elementary-aged children out of LGBTQ+ storybook lessons in school on the basis of religious freedom. Despite this ruling, taxpayer-funded primary schools nationwide have continued to make books with sexual and political themes available to children.

Among the books offered is the children’s comic book "Sex Is a Funny Word," which goes beyond traditional sex education to include transgender, lesbian, gay, and bisexual experiences, as well as gender creative and gender-nonconforming children, according to the book’s website. It covers topics such as crushes, love, sexy feelings, birth sex, gender identity, and gender roles.

Another educational book aimed at 8-10 year olds discusses bodies, gender, and sexuality, featuring children and families of diverse makeups, orientations, and gender identities. One story in this book involves a young girl navigating a crush on her friend’s mother.

Public schools encourage families, educators, and students to explore books about LGBTQ+ history and experiences. For example, one book’s Amazon summary describes a trans boy named Aidan who, after realizing his gender identity, and with the support of his parents, adjusted his life to fit his true self.

These offerings reflect ongoing debates about educational content in elementary schools across the country.

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