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How Do I Help My Kid Get Used To Wearing Face Masks?
By Kate Brierley
Let’s be real: Being responsible for growing humans is challenging enough without the added stress of a global pandemic. But when that’s the situation the entire world is facing, it’s an opportunity for parents to lead by example. So how do we keep things positive for kids day to day?
The way we talk about and wear protective face coverings to safeguard our family’s health is a great place to start. As a mom of two boys (ages four and seven), I found that by getting them involved in choosing their own masks, it got them more excited about the idea of rocking them around town. All of a sudden, wearing masks was a chance for creativity and self-expression. By encouraging them to find styles that speak to their spirit — and that are also comfortable — it makes it easier to work them into our daily lives.
And that’s extra-important now, as we prepare for a back-to-school season that won’t look like the ones we’re used to. Like moms everywhere, I’m doing my best to prepare them for the changes in learning and lifestyle. And I know that making the best of it means adding plenty of masks to our BTS shopping this year.
Maybe your child likes bright tie-dye colors or dinosaurs. Maybe they’re partial to pandas or really cute dogs. There’s a mask for that! By mixing and matching, you can encourage their originality while doing what’s necessary to keep everyone healthy and safe. As proof, we’ve put together four looks from Old Navy, where the mask helps create an entire mood. Explore for yourself — you may be surprised by what your kids come up with.
Who said safe playground apparel has to be one-note? This look is equal parts ferocious and fun, mixing a dinosaur-print mask assortment with neutral wardrobe staples and comfortable standout styles.
Mom Mask Hack: To get them excited about this look, make dinos part of the outing! Encourage your little one to roll up their sleeves and pretend they're a paleontologist — on the hunt for dinosaur bones that are millions of years old. (Bonus points for burying treasure wherever they'll be searching ahead of time!)
When it’s time to blow off some steam and get some socially-distant exercise, this look fits the bill for kids who are adventurous and expressive. A graphic tee and distressed jeans set the stage for an afternoon that’s out of this world, and the puppy-printed mask and helmet will keep them safe on the go. Add some fresh kicks, and they’re ready to ride.
Mom Mask Hack: Why not let the mask inspire a socially distant tour of all of your child's favorite neighborhood pups or a search for the cutest dogs out and about that day? This will get them excited not just for the ride, but for the chance to name the winner of the coveted 'Puppy of the Day' award!
When your kid’s ready to socialize safely and enjoy a change of scenery, this fresh outfit feels ready for fun. A tie-front tee and comfortable denim skirt take center stage, complemented by a set of yummy treat-themed masks (mix them up throughout the week!) and glittery slides. Bring your own snacks!
Mom Mask Hack: It's no secret that getting kids to eat their veggies at mealtime can be a struggle. Make it a fun challenge for them instead, by having them pick their favorite snack-printed mask to wear all week. Once they complete a week of fuss-free meals, celebrate together with the real treat! Whether they prefer tacos, pizza, or doughnuts, this mask pack has them covered.
Set your child up for success by blending bolds and basics. An effortless classic tee and dip-dye denim pair well with fun accessories to really zhuzh it up. And, of course, the must-have mask pack (from navy blue to bright tie-dye prints) matches the outfit and extras — perfect for those midday walks around the neighborhood in between virtual learning sessions.
Mom Mask Hack: Tie-dye is everywhere now, so let her show off her sense of style and feel connected to friends and classmates at the same time. To make masking up more enticing, grab a matching mask pack for her bestie and let them coordinate. Much like friendship bracelets, it's a favorite way to bond (while prioritizing safety).
