This helpful guide is designed specifically for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) going through puberty. It covers three important areas of personal care:
How to Stay Clean – Practical advice on showering, cleaning sexual parts, and using deodorant.
Whether to Shave/Wax or Not – A respectful discussion about body hair and personal choice.
How to Take Care of Your Skin and Avoid Acne – Simple tips for managing pimples and zits during puberty.
Written in clear, easy-to-understand language with helpful illustrations, this resource empowers individuals with I/DD to develop healthy hygiene habits and feel more confident in their bodies.
Ideal for: Self-advocates, parents, educators, and support professionals.
Note: This document description was co-created with AI and reviewed by the Elevatus team for accuracy.
Katherine McLaughlin, M.Ed., AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator, is the Founder, CEO, and Lead Trainer for Elevatus Training. She has been a sexuality educator and trainer for over 30 years. As a national expert on sexuality and intellectual and developmental disabilities, she trains professionals and parents, as well as people with I/DD, to become sexual self-advocates and peer sexuality educators.
