Because the rate of AIDS among South African children is so high, I can understand why such a character would be introduced on Sesame Street in that country. I'm not sure I agree completely with that decision. But because I do know that so many South African children are affected by the disease, or probably know a child that has it, or that has died from it, there may be some positive learning that comes from having character with HIV.
Now, would I want my own preschool child to learn the harsh realities of living and dying from AIDS from Sesame Street?
I would have to answer "no." First off, AIDS is a reality here in the US and some children have the disease. However, it cannot not even begin to compare with the devastation done by the disease in South Africa. I do not want my PRESCHOOL child burdened with having to try and understand AIDS without a point of reference to put it into perspective. That is a burden they should not be asked to carry at that age. That is my job to do.
Now, if my child were to come to me and ask me about the illness, I would be as honest as I possibly could without unduly frightening, or confusing, him or her. Of course, I understand there are many harsh realities in the world that children have to come to grips with. I understand that. But to think that we must "inform" young children "just because" is not fair to them.
As my children get older, I decide what information they are prepared to ingest and they are not. Sexuality is also a reality of life, but I don't think a preschooler is should be taught about it. Especially on a TV show. Yes, I'm protective. Probably more than the average parent. I don't try to deliberately hide things from them. But, there is NO WAY I will allow them to be expose to information that may only add to more confusion than understanding.
Andee
