Getting Kids Comfortable With Masks

Wearing a mask is an important tool in helping to stop the spread of COVID-19. However some kids may struggle with mask wearing. Learn more about how families can get kids comfortable with wearing masks.

How to Wear a Mask

Kids should wash their hands first, then put on their mask by holding the loops that go around their ears. In addition, any mask a child wears should fit their face, covering both their nose and mouth.

A good fit is not just about safety. Since children have smaller faces, it can be hard for the mask to stay up. A broader strap behind the ear makes a mask more comfortable, and a proper fitting mask will be easier for a child to wear.

What Can Parents Do?

Parents can help their child get used to wearing a mask by modeling good behavior and wearing their mask appropriately when needed. 

Don’t surprise kids by having them wear a mask for the first time while out in a crowded space. Instead, try just 10 minutes at a time at home. Once kids get comfortable with that, it will be easier for them to wear a mask for longer periods of time.

Certified Child Life Specialist Katie Stein recommends getting kids involved with picking out their mask.

“I think kids do best when there are choices,” she said. “Letting kids design their masks, choose their masks, the patterns that are on their masks. Decorating their masks with fabric markers, making it their own.”

Stein said parents should also explain to their kids why masks are important. It’s become routine for kids to cough or sneeze into their elbow, because they’ve been taught it helps stop the spread of germs. You can use the same example when talking to kids about masks. In addition, most kids are fairly resilient and adults shouldn’t underestimate their ability to adapt to change.