Every kid has to go through the smelly phase of their life. We all know just how self-conscious we are at that age about our appearance let alone smells. However, it’s even worse when someone draws attention to it. LA member of the Mama’s Uncut Facebook Community reported that her son was sent home with a note from his teacher. The note claimed that her son, as well as two other boys, were sent to the nurses to put on deodorant. Do you think this teacher did the right thing? Read the mother’s post below.
Deodorant And Stress
“My son came home Friday from school with a note saying he and two other boys in his class need deodorant. He said in class his teacher approached all three and said they have body odor so she sent them to the nurse for deodorant. My son refused to put it on because he already wears deodorant every day. He said his best friend has a medical issue so he wears a special kind. He didn’t tell the teacher it wasn’t him when placed on the spot because he didn’t want his friend laughed at or made fun of alone. She wanted him to bring deodorant with him today and to put it on when she tells him to make sure he is wearing it.”
It’s pretty obvious from this mom’s worry that she wants to say something to the school nurse. It’s even more demeaning for her son’s friend who has a medical condition for his body odor. The fact that her son took the blame just for the sake of not drawing attention to his friend says a lot. This teacher should’ve taken all things into consideration with these kids.
Perhaps she doesn’t know about this medical condition. Even if she doesn’t, does she have the right to put these pre-teen boys on the spot for their odor? This is the time in their lives where ‘fitting in’ plays an important role in their social development. Nobody wants the finger pointed at them at this age.
Is This The Right Decision?
“I’m a big stickler about hygiene. I watch my son apply deodorant every morning along with brushing teeth, hair, etc. I called the school and am waiting on a callback. My son doesn’t want to even go to class because he doesn’t like his teacher anymore and she embarrassed him. He’s 11yrs old and in 6th grade. What would you guys do? Should I call the school board? Also, there is a special app I have to communicate with the teacher. I feel she should have notified me via app not a note with all the boy’s names.”
The concerned mother continues to explain the situation
In this situation, it’s hard to know what exactly the right thing to do is. Especially since this involves someone else’s child who has a medical condition. It might be wise for her to contact the other parents who received the same notes from their kids. It might be even more important for the mother of the child with the medical condition to provide this information to those who need it (ie. select school staff).
What Other Parents Think
Many parents responded to her question with various perspectives. Some believe that the teacher did nothing wrong and that this was her way of trying to help. However, there are some parents that disagree and this teacher was trying to bully these sixth graders. Although, some of them made good points about why this is a normal thing at this age. A lot of them agree that the way that this teacher handled this situation might not have been the best decision. Perhaps if she had used the app, a lot of these feelings could’ve been avoided.
The solution of taking your deodorant to school to prove you’re wearing it may not as encouraging as you’d think. Of course, all students should be aware of their body’s overall well-being. This includes being mindful of your hygiene and appearance. For some students, this can be easier said than done.
Obviously, if you have a medical condition, it’s a different story. Already being self-conscious about your smell and taking prescription-strength deodorant can be embarrassing to some, especially at that age. Let alone being put on the spot about it. Hopefully, the other mother feels similar outrage and wants to help remedy the situation. Should she speak to the teacher, or maybe the principal or school board? Proper communication is a must. What do you think this mom should do?