Knowing about Myself

The booklet emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable and private environment for these conversations. Caregivers are advised to assess their child's understanding and readiness to discuss HIV before initiating the conversation. The booklet explains that HIV is a condition that affects the body's immune system, making it harder to fight off infections. It describes the role of CD4 cells, which help the body fight off HIV. The booklet also discusses the importance of taking medicine every day to manage HIV and maintain good health. Children may experience a range of emotions when learning about HIV, including fear, anger, sadness, and worry. The booklet encourages caregivers to provide emotional support and reassurance, while also allowing children to express their feelings and ask questions. The booklet includes a section where children can draw or write about their emotions, using a range of facial expressions to convey their feelings.