​How to Make Your Child More Likely to Wear a Face Mask? Let's Find Out

It's no secret that wearing a face mask has become the new normal for many of us. And while some children have taken to wearing them with ease, others have been resistant. During these times, it's important to remember that every child is different and will approach the situation in their own way. So, what can you do to make your child more likely to wear a face mask?

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1. Misnomers/Myth busting
There are a lot of myths floating around about face masks and children. It's important to dispel these myths so that your child knows that wearing a face mask is nothing to be afraid of.

For example, some children may think that wearing a face mask means they are sick. It's important to explain to your child that this is not the case. Wearing a face mask helps protect others from getting sick, even if the person wearing the mask is not sick themselves.

Similarly, some children may think that wearing a face mask will make it difficult to breathe. Again, it's important to explain that this is not the case. Face masks do not block all of the airways and children should still be able to breathe normally while wearing one.

And, some children may think that face masks are just not cool. It's important to explain to your child that everyone is wearing them, even celebrities and their favorite characters. Wearing a face mask can actually be seen as a sign of strength and responsibility.

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2. Prepare your child for wearing a mask
If your child is resistant to the idea of wearing a face mask, it may help to prepare them in advance. Show them how to put on and take off a face mask. Let them practice with different types of masks so they can find one that is comfortable for them.

Young boy, face mask, helped by his parent, mother, masks

Let them choose their mask
And, if possible, let them choose their own face mask. Children are more likely to wear a face mask if they feel like they have some control over the situation. Allowing them to pick out their own face mask will give them a sense of ownership and responsibility.

Modeling
One of the best ways to get your child to wear a face mask is by modeling the behavior yourself. Let your child see you wearing a face mask and explain to them why you are doing it. Children are more likely to follow the lead of someone they trust and respect.

Make it fun
You can do this by turning it into a game or by making it into a competition. For example, you can see who can wear their face masks the longest or who can put their face mask on the quickest.

Rewards
You may also want to consider offering rewards for wearing a face mask. This could be something as simple as a sticker or a treat. Children are more likely to wear a face mask if they know they will be rewarded for doing so.

Be understanding
It's important to remember that not all children will be willing to wear a face mask, no matter what you do. Some children may have medical conditions that make it difficult or impossible to wear a face mask.

Others may have anxiety or sensory issues that make it difficult to wear a face mask. In these cases, it's important to be understanding and work with your child to find an alternative solution.

 

3. Using visuals
If your child is struggling to understand why wearing a face mask is important, you may find it helpful to show them visuals. This could be anything from pictures and social stories to videos and cartoons.

There are a lot of great resources available online. A quick search will reveal a wealth of options.

Pictures: Pictures can be a great way to help your children understand why wearing a face mask is important. You can find a lot of great pictures online or you can make your own.
Social stories: Social stories are short, simple stories that explain a concept in an easy-to-understand way. They often include pictures to further illustrate the point. You can find a lot of great social stories online or you can make your own.
Videos: The internet is full of great videos that explain why wearing a face mask is important. You can find videos made by organizations like the CDC or you can find videos made by parents and children.
Cartoons: Cartoons are always a hit with kids. You can find cartoons that explain why wearing a face mask is important or you can make your own.

4. Try different designs and breathable material
young children, FFP2, FFP3, Small Size, green, yellow, white, red

Face masks come in a wide range of designs. You can find face masks that are plain, patterned, or even decorated with your child's favorite characters. It's important to find a face mask that is comfortable for your child to wear.

You should also make sure that the face mask you choose is breathable. A face mask that is too tight or made from a material that is not breathable can make it difficult for your child to breathe.

Choosing the right face mask for your child is important. You wa...