If your child is scared of wearing a mask, parents should wear masks as well, so your child doesn’t feel alone. Some other ideas to help make masks seem less scary are:
- While wearing masks, look in the mirror and talk about it.
- Put a mask on a favorite stuffed animal.
- Decorate a mask so it’s more personalized and fun.
- Show your child pictures of other children wearing masks.
- Draw a mask on their favorite book character.
- Have your child practice wearing a mask at home first.
For very young children, it’s best to answer their questions simply in language they understand. If children ask about people wearing masks or other face coverings, parents can explain that sometimes people wear masks when they are sick, or to be protected from getting sick. Last, an important way to reassure children is to emphasize how you are taking steps to stay safe during this time, and that wearing a mask can keep all of us safer. Children feel empowered and less afraid when they know what to do to keep themselves safe.
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