Introduction
Education must continue to be our main thrust in the battle against AIDS because despite intensive and extensive scientific and medical research efforts, the development of a cure or AIDS vaccine is probably years away. To protect our children from AIDS, we must teach them how to prevent it. The education of young people will require broad based efforts of all segments of our society, but it places a special and heavy burden on the family.
Talking to children about AIDS requires discussions about sex, drugs, and alcohol - subjects which may be difficult to address but should not be avoided. Avoiding these issues won't protect our children. On the contrary, knowledge and understanding can almost eliminate the risk of contracting AIDS.
Getting Ready
Attitudes about sex, alcohol, and other drugs develop very early in life. Parents must be able to constantly relate a strong system of positive values not only orally, but also through example to their children from a very early age.
- The most important thing a parent can do is learn accurate information about AIDS. The more you know about AIDS, the more comfortable you will feel answering your child's questions.
- Be aware of your child's fears and worries related to AIDS.
- Do not underestimate what children know or do not force them to deal with issues beyond their understanding, and do not wait for your child to bring up these "touchy" subjects.
Pre-School (1-4 Years)
Children at this age need only the most basic information about AIDS. Mostly they need reassurance that AIDS is a serious disease but there is little danger that they will get it.
This is a good time to begin answering questions about sex such as, "Where do babies come from?". Your answers should be clear, concise, and direct and using proper terms for body parts. This is also an excellent opportunity to begin to pass on family values as related to sex, alcohol, and drugs, and to develop the impression that you are available to answer questions and discuss problems openly and honestly.
Young Children (5-8 Years)
Although they are not ready to hear all the details, children at this age begin to learn about sex, health, sickness and death. Again they need reassurance, but they need to know that AIDS is caused by a virus and they cannot get it from casual contact. You may need to be more specific if your child is especially concerned about transmission by telling them the virus can be passed on during sex or when needles are shared when illegal drugs are used.
Pre-Teens (9-12 Years)
Children at this age need to know much more about transmission of AIDS because they are developing an interest in their bodies and sex. They need to know about the dangers of casual sex and illegal drug use, how they can protect themselves, and that most cases of AIDS can be prevented.
Peer pressure can become very intense at this age and may be in direct conflict with teachings in the home, school or church. Attempts should be made to find out what the child already knows and immediately correct any misinformation so they are properly informed as they begin to make choices that will affect the rest of their lives.
Teens (13 Years)
Taking risks with alcohol, sex and drugs becomes a part of the lives of many adolescents. They should be reminded that AIDS is primarily transmitted through unprotected sex and IV drug use, and that these risky behaviors increase their chances of infection.
Open and honest discussions about AIDS prevention, sex and drugs are essential to the health and future of children. For additional information or assistance, call the Baltimore County Prevention Line 410-887-0212.
Revised May 24, 2006
Courthouse 