Lesson 6: Changes in Perspiration and Body Odor

Objectives:

Students will:

• Recognize that the body perspires more and produces a stronger odor starting in puberty.
• Relate these changes to the increased need for showering and using a deodorant on a daily basis.
• Describe the effects of personal hygiene on interpersonal relationships and one's self-concept.

Vocabulary:

Materials: Picture Card 8, samples of stick, roll-on, non-aerosol pump spray, or cream deodorants; samples of toothpaste, toothbrush, dental floss, and mouthwash

Procedure:

1. Read Picture Card 8 and go over discussion questions.
2. Show students various types of deodorant containers. Allow students to smell each deodorant and pick which one smells the best to them.
3. Demonstrate how to roll or spread on deodorant by doing so on the back of your hand or on a piece of paper. NOTE: Aerosol spray deodorant is not recommended in this program because students can hurt themselves if they accidentally spray it in their faces. Also, aerosol spray deodorant is considered harmful to the environment.
4. If bathroom or locker facilities are available, have students actually bring a deodorant from home and have them practice putting it on. Students specifically need to learn how much to put on and how to cover the whole underarm area.
5. A Suggestion. Some teachers like to keep non-aerosol pump spray deodorant in their classroom for students who forget to put on their deodorant before school or who really need it after PE or recess. This is especially helpful when students first start needing deodorant. Students should be praised for noticing on their own that they need deodorant.
6. Additional Information. Explain that students will notice increased perspiration on their hands and feet during puberty. And just as exercise can cause perspiration, it's also normal to perspire more when nervous or under stress.
7. Demonstrate/review proper dental hygiene using sample toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss and mouthwash. Have students practice in school. Discuss social implications of having nice-smelling breath vs. bad breath.