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Akron Children's > Frequently Asked Questions

How do children react to people wearing face masks?

This is new for children and adults alike. If your child is hesitant, here's some helpful tips to get children more comfortable:

Put a timer on and wear a face covering alongside your child at home. Incrementally increase the time to allow your child to get used to the feel. You could try a reward for practicing wearing the face covering at home. For example, allow your child screen time while wearing the face covering.

If your child expresses fear over the mask, address what is bothering them. This may be due to fear of the mask itself, itchiness, feeling hot or difficulty breathing. It may be because they haven't seen other children wearing them.

  • Have a child feel more comfortable with face masks by seeing other family members wear them as well
  • Put a mask on a favorite stuffed animal
  • Show your child photos of other children wearing face coverings
  • One of the biggest challenges with having children wear face coverings relates to them "feeling different" or stereotyping them as being sick. As more people wear face coverings, children will get used to them and not feel strange about wearing them
  • When creating or choosing a mask, experiment with different fabric textures
  • Be patient! It may take days or even weeks for a child to get used to a face mask

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