Publications

Older Children

Raising a child can bring a lot of joy but also a lot of worry for a parent. As children begin to get out on their own and develop their own relationships with other children and adults, there can be problems. Sometimes the influence of these other people is not what it should be and parents must be watchful to make sure that their children are kept from danger.

There are many temptations for young people, and sometimes they do not recognize when the temptation is a dangerous one. The most effective way to keep your child from dangerous temptations is to get to them before the temptation does.

Most parents worry about their children’s alcohol and drug use, smoking and sexuality. While most kids can stay on the right track, it takes only one bad influence to change their direction. And parents need to address these issues before the bad influence comes along. This is also true for AIDS.

Many parents hesitate to talk to their children about AIDS and HIV infection. They feel that they do not know enough factual information to speak knowledgeably. There are many resources available to parents to prepare themselves to do this. This booklet can be a starting point.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has a toll-free information line that can answer questions and provide printed material for parents and children. Call: 1-800-432-AIDS. This is a free call. Other organizations, like your local Red Cross chapter, have good materials for both parents and children.

The time to talk with children is before the temptation comes along. A parent can tell how much information their child needs to know at a certain age, and the parent can provide that information. Doing this early will lay the groundwork for future discussion and information. Parents should begin talking with their children about AIDS and HIV before their teen years. After that, it may be too late.

 

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