Recently, at our church’s Global Focus (aka Missions Week, in non-Bethlehem lingo), Derek and I were asked if we could speak to the kiddos on a Wednesday night. We respectfully declined. Not because we’re afraid of kids. Not because we’re afraid of speaking. And not because we didn’t have the time.
In fact, several years ago, I spoke to the kids about the street kids in Zambia. So, why not speak to the kids now? Because this time we will be working with HIV.
It is easy for kids to grasp and be affected by something like street kids. But HIV? Hmmmm. That’s a toughy. And we’re not too sure how some parents would respond to their 5-year old learning about HIV.
Over the past few years, we have been able to address large groups and small groups about HIV in Zambia, and inevitably we end up hearing something like this from a well-meaning, all-too-inquisitive 7-year old:
I get that people are sick. And I get that HIV makes them sick. But how do they get HIV?
This is where you parents come in. How would you answer that? How would you explain to your first grader what HIV is? Please feel free to leave a comment, because we really to want your input. Thanks!
Derek and Kristin Dearth 
Due to the fact that the girls were real little when Derek first went to Zambia we had to have that discussion early with them. I have never shied away from the topic when the girls have asked. HIV is a very real part of our world, not only in Africa, but here as well. When they were real small I stayed away from the sexual aspect, but merely told them that by sharing blood it could be passed. Probably by the time they were 7 or 8 we touched on the sexual aspect of it. I would have loved to not had to have that birds and bees talk for quite some time, but unfortunately being in public school and by owning a tv it was necessary to address it earlier than I would have liked. Kids learn about sex much earlier than we did when we were kids. They are well-versed in divorce and changing relationships between adults so I think it is possible to discuss it without dwelling on sex itself. Just my thoughts!