World AIDS Day is Tuesday, December 1st, and it is dedicated to raising awareness about the AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) pandemic. Parents can help raise awareness by talking to their children about HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and AIDS. As challenging as it is, parents can learn how to talk about these sensitive topics with their children. Children often prefer to get information about sex or HIV from their parents. It's an opportunity to provide accurate information, along with sharing your own personal values.
According to WebMD, research has shown the benefits of parent-child communication. Parents should not let the lack of confidence or fear keep them from discussing AIDS and other difficult yet important topics with their child. Below are suggestions for opening the lines of communication between parents and children.
If you're uncomfortable talking about the subject, be honest with your child.
Start by finding out what they already know. You can build on that and dispel any misconceptions.
Take advantage of "teachable moments." Movies, television shows, public service announcements, or even the birth of a baby or pet can be great conversation starters.
If you have more than one child, speak with them separately to allow for more open, age-appropriate discussion. Use simpler words with a younger child.
Parents don't need to give all the information at once.
When you talk, give your child your undivided attention, asking questions to find out the level of understanding.
Don't put off questions. If you don't have the answer, find out.
Don't talk about AIDS in your first discussion about sex. Connecting the two from the beginning may leave the wrong impression.
Once you start talking about AIDS, be prepared to discuss death.
There are many benefits to talking about AIDS with your child. The following benefits of open communication are from WebMD:
Talking with children about HIV and AIDS increases the chances of delaying sex and protects against risky behavior.
Talking about HIV and AIDS decreases the chances of unprotected sex.
If the use of condoms is discussed before teens have sex, they are three times more likely to use condoms later on.
Teens who discuss sex with parents are seven times more likely to feel comfortable talking with a sex partner about HIV and AIDS.
It is a fact of life these days that kids are going to hear about AIDS. It's in the news, it's taught in schools, and it's talked about on the playgrounds.
Much of what your children might hear may be inaccurate or conflict with your values. It is important to open the lines of communication with your children so they feel comfortable talking with you about sensitive subjects. This way you can provide accurate facts, as well as your own beliefs and values.
SOURCE: examiner
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