The subtlety of smell
10 February 2012
A soap factory has gelled with a UK school for youngsters with sensory impairments and learning difficulties to help the pupils recognise objects in the classroom using smell.
PZ Cussons' fragrance house is working with the Royal School Manchester for the project - the first of its kind in the world.
Perfumers from the company, which makes soaps, shower gels and detergents, have created special smells for the pupils which have been put on items at the school like chairs and beds, so children with no vision or limited sight are able to recognise them by scent. There are also savoury aromas designed to replicate the smells of common foods to help the pupils tell teachers what they want for lunch.
Researchers say the perfumes can improve a child's understanding and communication skills, including their ability to make choices.