Don’t know what to do about DS

[Helpwithson2]

He smells awful but won’t shower (autism) what do other parents do? I can’t stand it

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Ain't that the truth?

How old is he and is he able to understand why personal hygiene is important? Can he articulate what it is about the shower that he can’t tolerate?

Paddling pool is a great idea, but maybe impractical if he’s 16 and 6 feet tall

My dd hated bathing when she was little. She has a few sensory issues but nt apart from that. Swimming was great and probably the best way to wash off smells. Doesn’t help with the hair though really.

Does he do bribery and corruption? I imagine you’ve tried that.

Would he be up for bubble experiments and tipping them over himself in a sprinkler / paddling pool? Could you afford a hot tub and do bubbles? They’re about £500. I know that bubbles will probably ruin it after a while.

@NewYearNewMe18 aye, but even if the showers weren’t used it’s so full of chlorine it wouldn’t be an issue.

Nobody knows the personal hygiene of anyone in a public swimming pool,

Hi. How old is he and his level of understanding.
There's loads of advice but it depends on him.
Tackling sensory issues
Visual timetable of what he needs to do.
Standing in bath not sitting down.
If you could give more details we are willing to try to help you. Please don't feel we don't want to.
You could move this to chat as it's a kinder place to be.

I'm going to guess at teenager if he smells awful.
It all depends on his issues surrounding the shower is it the noise? the water beating down on him? How is he with baths?

If you don't have a bath is there someone that could let you use theirs a few times a week?

Have issues with one of mine and hair washing ever so often - the smell can get bad - dry shampoo and later own conditioner foam mouse help.

Other than that - flannel and bowl/sink of water?

Will he sit in the bath/stand in the shower with clothes on? (No water obviously) then you can build up the tolerance towards water eventually?

Will he do water play? Wash dishes/toys in the sink?

If you can provide more information as to wheee he is up to then it may help people give more relevant advice