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Home Page (late elementary or early middle school audiences)
Natalie is surprised to find that her young friend, Joanne, has brought her an anniversary gift. Joanne explains that the birdhouse is a symbolic gift to convince Natalie and her husband, Raymond, to have a baby. When Natalie tells Joanne that she has AIDS, Joanne is shocked and frightened. Natalie tells her story calmly and with great consideration for her friend. They discuss myths and misconceptions about AIDS as well as facts about how HIV is spread. In this script, Joanne learns that Natalie contracted HIV by having sex with her husband who formerly used injecting drugs. Natalie emphasizes openness in discussing sex, high risk behavior and [depending on your community guidelines] condoms as a means of reducing a person's risk of contracting HIV. Natalie takes questions from the audience and sample questions and answers are included in the Program Guide. (Natalie, Joanne)
(late elementary or early middle school audiences)
As Natalie teaches Joanne how to play chess, Joanne talks to her about AIDS. They talk about how Natalie learned she was sick and how her condition has progressed. Even though it was hard for Natalie to learn she had an incurable illness, she explains the importance of knowing about her condition and managing her health. Natalie also helps Joanne understand the value of family and friends as she focuses her energy on living her life. Natalie takes questions from the audience and sample questions and answers are included in the Program Guide. (Natalie, Joanne)
(early elementary audiences)
Joanne is practicing her science presentation in front of her neighbor, Natalie. As Joanne goes through her demonstration on viruses, she and Natalie discuss basic hygiene. The difference between viruses that are easy to catch (colds and flu) and viruses that are hard to catch (the AIDS virus) is also discussed. Joanne and Natalie then lead the audience in a review of the material. (Natalie, Joanne)
| The Kids on the Block, created in 1977, features life size puppets who, through the magic of live puppet theatre, teach children and adults about disabilities, medical and educational differences, and social concerns. Through the hard work and dedication of many community based groups, The Kids on the Block puppets are able to touch the lives of people all over the world. |