EXPERTS SAY: EXPLAIN AIDS TO KIDS.(Main)

Byline: Los Angeles Daily News

While the news of Magic Johnson's retirement after he tested HIV-positive figures to be devastating news to all of his fans, it could be especially disturbing to some of his youngest admirers.

While they advise sensitivity, child psychologists say parents should be honest in discussing Johnson's situation with their children.

"You have to be very straightforward," said Jeffrey Derevensky, a professor of educational psychology and counseling at Montreal's McGill University. "Kids who are 10 or 12 are certainly familiar with the concept of the disease. You tell them he has contracted a disease that will weaken him so …