The pre-teen years are stressful enough -- on both parents and children -- without worrying about body odor and hormonal changes. But by talking with your child and making personal hygiene a priority, you can help your teen get through those troubling times.

“Communication is key,” Parents need to talk with their children about what’s happening with their bodies and what they should do about it. Constant nagging about cleanliness won’t do the trick.

Deodorants

The issue of when to start using deodorant depends on your child’s development and age. As children grow, their endocrine glands begin to release hormones. When your child is active and perspires, an odor is emitted through these glands, and deodorant suddenly becomes a necessary item.

If your child doesn’t see the need yet for smelling good, don’t take at heart. Once your child has developed an interest in the opposite sex, he or she will be more aware of personal cleanliness.

Lather Up

Along with deodorant, bathing is a basic part of cleanliness -- parents shouldn’t have to remind their children to shower.

Personal hygiene is non-negotiable. Just like chores and brushing teeth, parents should emphasize the importance of routine bathing.

Give your teen choices in their personal care products to get them interested.

If your budget allows, let them pick out some of the special “teen” soaps or shampoos that are now on the market. If they have their own items, teens are often more inclined to use them or parents can provide some prompting by filling a basket with the products they need or giving them their own shelf in the bathroom. That way they don’t have to share with the rest of the family.

Get into Grooming

Personal hygiene doesn’t stop with showering or applying deodorant; parents should also discuss other habits such as proper hand washing, shaving and treating acne.

Teach your child healthy hygiene habits that will last a lifetime. Parents should also model good behavior and be open to talking about sensitive topics with their children. Adolescence can be a scary, awkward time, so working through it as a family is important.