Parenting Asked by Stephy on July 21, 2020
Now that places are starting to open up a bit more in my state, I am trying to figure out what’s the best way to protect my almost 3 year old when we have to go out in public.
Some things to consider:
My question:
At the slightest sight of the mask, my daughter automatically responds with screaming no. How can I encourage her to want to wear it at least for a little while? Does anyone have any ways to make it seem a bit more fun for her?
———-
Clarification:
Children are not obligated, this would be purely just for me to feel that she is protected (of course with me watching with a very close eye).
In my experience, if the objection is due to the typical dislike of change, then simply being persistent and leading by example will win the day. Make it clear that she cannot go out if she does not have a mask, and be gentle but firm, reminding her why it's important - "This mask will protect you from getting sick, and will protect everyone around you from getting sick if you do get sick."
Do be conscious though that it's possible her objection is more specific. Similar to my son's objection to denim, which is likely due to sensory issues, it's very possible that she objects not because of obstinance or dislike of change, but because it is uncomfortable for her. As such, try to work out ways to make it less uncomfortable. There are different kinds of masks, some of which attach in different ways; for example, for our children we have masks that don't have elastic, but simply are longer pieces of slightly stretchy fabric that have holes cut in the fabric for the ears. Those seem to be somewhat more comfortable; the elastic strands behind the mask are uncomfortable for many.
Also consider the shape - she may prefer a rounder mask with more substance to it, for example, that stays away from the mouth and nostril, as opposed to a flat fabric mask that is closer fitting. Both protect effectively (given they are constructed properly), but it may simply require some testing to find what is comfortable for her. Work with her, make it clear you're trying different things, and ask her to try each thing once. Remind her what benefit she's getting - i.e., getting to go play at the park or whatever - and hopefully she will cooperate, at least for a short period of time.
Finally, definitely focus on that last bit: short. Children shouldn't be expected to wear masks for hours at a time. Fifteen minutes is about the most I'd expect at that age. You mention this in your question, so good job thinking of that - but also remind her it will be a short time, as she may not realize that internally (time is hard to comprehend at 3!)
Correct answer by Joe on July 21, 2020
Every kid is different, so this may not work in your case, but I got my (almost) four year old son to wear a mask (now required in my area for children over two) by turning it into a bit of a dress-up game.
For example, my son LOVES Spider-Man and Batman, so I bought myself a Spider-Man themed mask and my son a black Batman mask for his eyes and a black mouth/nose covering. Whenever we leave the house we go “fight crime” together and I told him that we can’t take off our masks because we don’t want to reveal our “secret identities”. We’ve since branched out to other super heroes and professions (doctors with stethoscopes, etc) and have quite a collection now.
Note: We started by playing dress-up in the house first, then moved it outside while doing necessary errands.
Answered by Steve Gomez on July 21, 2020
Could you get one of the masks with a headband and clear plastic screen, and pretend it's a 'space helmet'? https://medworx.co.uk/
Answered by sueelleker on July 21, 2020
Are you wearing yourself? There is usually no problem to persuade children to do what both parents consistently do.
Also you can simply explain what:
Normally even younger children respond better when asked for responsibility for others. For a parent who thinks about the child first this may be somewhat contra-intuitive.
Answered by h22 on July 21, 2020
The illusion of choice and of being in control are powerful with kids this age. Don't ask, or tell, her to put on a mask. Present her with a few different masks and ask her which one she wants you to wear. Then ask her which one she wants to wear.
Answered by Kevin on July 21, 2020
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