Parents play a critical role in preventing HIV in youth.
As parents, we need to face the facts. By the time they reach 12th grade, 65% of American youth are sexually active, with one in five reporting four or more sexual partners.
As your child's "first teacher" you play a critical role in their HIV/AIDS education. Research shows that simply talking to kids about sex and HIV actually delays the onset of sexual activity, promotes safer sexual practices, reduces the number of sexual partners, and reduces unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection rates.
Get involved in your child's HIV education.
- Express your support of HIV/AIDS education to the Parent Coordinator at your child's school or become one yourself.
- Encourage your child’s school or a community center to host a Love Heals Speakers Bureau workshop.
(Go to Speakers Bureau) - Encourage your child’s teacher to order the Ali Gertz: In Her Own Words Video and Lesson Guide.
(Go to video) - Work with other parents or your child to organize an event for December 1st, World AIDS Day.
- Hold a fundraiser — such as a car wash, dance-a-thon or bake sale — to benefit an AIDS organization.
- Educate yourself about the HIV/AIDS resources online and in your community.
(Go to Resource Center) - Arrange to have part of the AIDS Memorial Quilt (http://www.aidsquilt.org/) displayed at your child's school or at a community center.
- Volunteer for an organization that serves people living with HIV/AIDS and involve your child in this effort.
- Educate yourself about HIV/AIDS and share this information with your child.
- Don't forget to protect yourself!
For additional information and resources for talking to your kids about HIV/AIDS, please visit the Resource Center.
"As parents, we must make sure that young people have the knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves and let them know that we
are there to help and support them no matter what choices they make."
-Carol and Jerry Gertz,parents of Alison Gertz
Make A Difference:
- Demand HIV Education In The Schools
- Talk To Your Child
- Listen To Your Child
- Know The Facts
- Invite Love Heals To Your School
- Don't Forget To Protect Yourself