How to Talk to Your Child About Body Odour

How to Talk to Your Child About Body Odour


Discussing body odour with your child can be a sensitive topic. Here are some tips to make the conversation positive and constructive:

1. Choose the right time: Pick a private moment when your child is relaxed. This could be during a quiet time at home or perhaps during a walk together. Avoid bringing it up in front of others to prevent embarrassment.

2. Be matter-of-fact: Explain that body odour is a normal part of growing up. Use simple, straightforward language and relate it to other changes they might be experiencing or will experience soon.

3. Focus on hygiene: Frame the discussion around overall cleanliness rather than just odour. Talk about the importance of regular bathing, wearing clean clothes, and other hygiene practices that contribute to overall health and well-being.

4. Empower them: Teach your child how to manage their own hygiene routine. Show them how to use deodorant properly, if needed, and explain why it's important. This helps them feel in control of their own body and builds confidence.


Natural Ways to Manage Children's Body Odour

1. Regular bathing: Encourage daily baths or showers, especially after physical activities. Teach your child to pay special attention to areas where sweat glands are concentrated, like underarms and feet.

2. Proper drying: Ensure your child thoroughly dries themselves, paying attention to underarms. Moisture can promote bacterial growth, which contributes to odour. 

3. Clean clothes: Change into fresh clothes daily, especially after sweating. Explain that sweat and oils can remain in clothes even after they dry, potentially causing odour when reworn.

4. Natural fibres: Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton to reduce sweat build-up. These materials allow air to circulate, keeping the skin drier and reducing the environment where odour-causing bacteria thrive.

5. Healthy diet: Encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Some foods, like cruciferous vegetables, can help the body detoxify naturally. Limit intake of foods known to affect body odour, such as garlic and onions.


Choosing the Right Deodorant for Your Child

When it comes to managing body odour in children, choosing the right deodorant is crucial. Here's what to look for:

1. Natural ingredients: Opt for deodorants with plant-based ingredients that are gentle on young skin. Look for components like coconut oil, shea butter,  which can soothe and nourish the skin while combating odour.

2. Aluminium-free: Avoid antiperspirants with aluminium, which may be too harsh for children. Aluminium-based compounds work by blocking sweat glands, which isn't necessary or recommended for young children.

3. Fragrance-free or naturally scented: Strong artificial fragrances can irritate sensitive skin. If you choose a scented product, opt for those with essential oils or other natural fragrances that are less likely to cause skin reactions.

4. Easy application: Choose a product that's simple for your child to use independently. Roll-ons or stick deodorants are often easier for children to apply correctly compared to sprays or creams.