Help My Baby Turned Into A Tween And Needs Deodorant
As mothers, watching our children grow and develop can be a rollercoaster of emotions. It feels like just yesterday you were changing their diapers, dressing them in their favorite cartoon character t-shirts, and wiping away the crumbs from around their smiling mouths. But as time goes by, our babies transform into young adults, and one of the first signs of this change is the need for deodorant.
How many times do you ask yourself: “Is my child really growing up so quickly?” You might even pause to reminisce on the first day you smelled their sweet cheeks. Yet here we are, shopping for deodorant because they need it. Who knew there were so many brands and scents?
When should your child start wearing deodorant? Usually, children enter puberty between the ages of 8 and 13. This is typically when they begin experiencing body odor and may need to start using deodorant. However, it’s essential to remind yourself that every child is different; some may need it earlier or later than others. This is especially true if your child is active in sports or other extracurricular activities.
Watching your tween undergo these physical changes might evoke a mix of excitement and sadness.
You might be proud that they’re growing into independent individuals but also feel a pang of melancholy as their childhood days seem to be slipping away. As a mother of a tween myself, I wholeheartedly understand these emotions.
The key to navigating these changes without a heavy heart lies in embracing them with love. Remember that while your child’s exterior might be changing at a rapid pace, they still carry the same heart and spirit within them — that little person who counted on you for comfort and care.
Pop the cork on your favorite wine and try these steps to make it a little easier:
- Have open conversations
: Talk about the bodily transitions they’re experiencing during puberty and answer any questions they might have. - Celebrate milestones: Rejoice in their growth and accomplishments instead of mourning the past. This helps fuel their confidence and make them feel secure.
- Be a source of support: Provide them with the information and resources they need. Teach them how to properly use deodorant and educate them on the importance of personal hygiene.
- Stay connected: As your tween becomes more independent, pick activities together to bond over and keep that emotional connection strong.
At the end of the day, our kiddos will always be our babies, whether they’re pulling up on the sofa or inching towards adulthood. Embrace this journey into the tween years by offering both guidance and love, and cherish each step as a beautiful evolution in your relationship.
Side note: It’s also okay to cry while soaking in the tub. Just make sure you’re ready to shake it off tomorrow.
