Kids and Face Masks

I have previously blogged on the importance of face masks to enable our country to gain control of the covid pandemic.  No reason to use the word “controversy” or “debate” here.  There is none: it is settled science among all established authorities.  Currently, public mask wearing is the most effective way to stop the spread of covid, period. Doubt its effectiveness?  Try to blow out a candle wearing a good mask. Uncomfortable, inconvenient? Perhaps–A BIT. Hardly any major disruption of one’s normal routine. Threat to democracy?  CERTAINLY NOT.   It is simply good citizenship and good manners: you are showing concern for your fellow citizens and protecting potentially vulnerable neighbors.  What is “controversial” about that?

It does get to be a bit challenging with younger children– younger the kid, greater challenge.  Under age 2 or with special needs/incapable of removing a mask by herself—no mask. Older toddlers/young school age children should be encouraged–NOT FORCED–it’s cruel and counterproductive (a crying, resistant child, constantly pulling at the mask only INCREASES aerosol spread).

Some suggestions to improve cooperation for a more pleasant experience:

• Talk it up. Explain what masks are, why they help.  Use simple terms. Answer questions honestly–if you don’t know, don’t make it up–look it up. Emphasize that they are being brave, grown up, and are helping others–Grandma, their teacher.
• Demystify the process. Demonstrate mask use yourself: how to put it on, take off. Show them multiple times, have them practice those things on you. Have young children draw pictures of people wearing masks; put them on dolls for practice.
• Personalize the mask. Buy or draw on action figures, super heroes, designs: planets, rainbows–whatever themes your child likes (Beatles masks for Dr. G?) She can add beads, studs/costume jewels if she likes (be sure secured to avoid breathing problems).
• Acknowledge fears. Younger children read entire faces. Covering half can be confusing and frightening. Compare them to Halloween masks, have several “models”(parents, grandparents, older sibs) show what they look like in masks with different expressions. Do the same if the child has breathing fears. Multiple demonstrations, reviewed and reinforced over time, are helpful. Brief “practice periods” at home are beneficial.
• Proper mask and fit. Snug but comfortable.  Triple layer is best. High tech “N-95’s” more expensive and probably not necessary.  Later study suggests that bandanas and “neck grinders” may not be effective. However, as above–cooperation is key, so generally get the mask your child likes best.

Mostly keep masks on for all indoor play, especially if high risk people are present in that dwelling(exceptions for cohabitants in the home and perhaps a very FEW close loved ones beyond that group–“a pod.”).  Typical outside play–with constant movement and not too much direct contact– usually does NOT require mask wearing; the aerosols quickly dissipate in cross breezes. Avoid kisses and hugs.

Remember it’s rare to know one is contagious in the early stages of infection(if at all!) so caution is always best. Again–these are small inconveniences for a much larger good.  This is hardly any threat to “freedom” and forgive an editorial comment–asserting one’s “rights” without accepting “responsibilities” is not “liberty.”

That is adolescence.

Thanks for following.