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English Grammar: Singular Object Pronouns When Gender is Unknown

I am confused by the appropriate use of gender-specific object pronouns in English.

I am writing an article and and am having trouble with this line:

Has your child done something that you appropriate? Let _______ know!

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What should go in the blank?

I cannot use "him" because the child might be a girl. I cannot use "her" because the child might be a boy. I cannot use "them" because the line is referring to a single person.

English a confusing language, at least for me.

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Saqib Husain

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regmigrant

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jmcg

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Enabbar Ocap

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jmcg

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SunBow

I tend to agree with most of the above. Using them is more palatible even if plural and would have been my answer if first. I'd refer to him/her but that gives two pronouns, more overhead and potential conflict (battle of sexes) not to mention confusion of lgbtixyz etc along with preference preferred identified identity.

So goes my prejudice such as opposing forms requiring sex where only two options m/f. Lieing permitted and no need to know. Sex? How about answer yes or ok.

That said my 2nd comment likely to extend as others done did.

I'd not be texting were it not for author spelling it gender rather than <ugh> sex. Thanx.

I'd suggest best answer:

>> child

Remove the 'your', simplify/KISS. Is child biological, is person a sitter or teacher or tutor or adopter or physician etc. Also regretably 'it' can be authorized as child up to age 30 yet remains among children for life (check obits).

Just sayin'

SunBow

Btw use of.'her' remains increasing, given sins of past with desire for balance (retribution).