Hygiene Issue

I do not police body odor. If it were causing an issue with peers teasing or something then I would probably talk with parents but otherwise, I do not.

In my school, body odor it is handled by our adjustment counselor. It is looked at more as a social issue, rather than a medical issue. There have been a couple of times where a teacher has asked me to come speak to her class regarding hygiene in general, but I don't deal with specific cases.

I have deoderant for the kids, but only if they ask.

I have deoderant for the kids, but only if they ask.

Ditto.

If a particular student is having an issue with hygiene, generally the teacher will let me or the counselor know, and we will do what we can to help the child get cleaned up. (Wipes in bathroom, clean clothes,etc.) I follow up with a call home to a parent, which is generally uncomfortable to discuss, but necessary. Some children can be picked on if they have an offensive body odor. It's not fair to the child to not address it in a gentle, caring way. I had one student this year that must have worn the same clothes for 4 days and had that very strong "old urine" odor. (Probably slept in his clothes and peed the bed.) Poor kid. This is neglect, IMO. In a couple cases, we have had to involve DCFS, (It was really bad.)

So yes, I do address it. But I really try to be tactful.

Such a touchy conversation. But sometimes it has to be done and I am the one doing it. Usually 4th & 5th graders. I remind students they are responsible for themselves. I always ask if they have the supplies needed to clean and fresh if they didn't I would find a way to make sure the student could get them. Washing the clothes is an issue in which I don't have an answer. Most of the students don't have access to a washing machine and their clothes only get washed once a week. usually if thats the case I try to get a used uniform so at least they have a spare set.

In my elementary school they send everything to the clinic. Teachers tell me that having an accident in their pants and every other issue even sometimes behavior is a medical issue, they do not want to be bothered with anything even the special ed teachers and administration want me to deal with the parents. It is so frustrating some days I just tell the parents that so and so wanted me to call you.