This week KPI hosted Hygiene Week for our kids. During our coaching clinic, the coaches expressed their concern for the kid’s hygiene. As a group, we decided we would host discussions on Wed/Thurs on hygiene, specifically, cleaning our bodies, cleaning our ears, brushing our teeth, how to use the toothpaste, cutting our nails, moisturizing our skin, and washing our clothes.
Each discussion was lead by a male and female coach. Christine and Eric led the conversation for the 7-12 year olds and Christine Uwamahoro and Willy led the conversation for the 13-15 yr olds. For the older group, and all girls 12+, following the general hygiene discussion we split into single gender groups.
Elisabeth and Christine took the girls to discuss female specific hygiene, particularly 
as it related to their menstrual cycle, and Willy and Eric took the boys to discuss general body changes and respecting girls. Although it was evident that each group was rather uncomfortable with the discussion, both asked questions and thanked the coaches following the conversation. One of our boys, Fabrice, commented on how much he liked having these “life” conversations. He said it is very rare to have the chance to talk to adults about alcohol (last weeks nutrition discussion) or life changes. He said it helps him “think.”
Following the group conversations, each child received toothpaste, a toothbrush, soap, a razor to cut their nails, q-tips, and Vaseline. We also had our KPI Fan Club join the conversation and each received a toothbrush.
Overall, it was a great week. In two weeks we will follow-up with the kids re: hygiene and each child will receive their KPI t-shirt and player card as a Christmas gift.
We would like to sincerely thank all of our friends and supporters who donated hygiene products. Please know how much your contribution means to our kids and us.