Masks for young students are not recommended by most pediatric doctors. Additionally, most young children say masks hinder running because they fall. Also, they say it is difficult to breathe. It appears that masks are not any more practical for children than social distancing. However, they are necessary to keep from spreading germs.
Schools are tackling many issues to ensure the safety of children in the classroom setting. To expect children to wear a mask may be too much. There are many variations of the mask debate. Some will require them for everyone, some will require them for staff only. As schools require masks, children need to learn proper care of it. Also, as children tend to abuse the mask while in school, there must not be a punishment for not following rules. A warning may only be necessary.
Many experts feel that children are less likely to spread the virus. Nor to the get seriously ill with the virus. However, there is much that is unknown and only speculated. Some say children over two need to wear a mask when they are out among others. However, it must be washed daily after wear.
As children enter school, educators, parents, and doctors worry about the student to student contact. Also, they worry about the student to teacher contact. Some educators feel the school policy needs to permit children to wear masks when they are comfortable or in group work. Some children may have a difficult time and need to take it off periodically. In other words, some say to encourage masks, not require.
Masks prevent children from touching their face. Children usually have unclean hands after work or play. Continuously washing hands during class time may not be feasible. Therefore, a mask is helpful.
Mask Preparation
First, discuss with young children about people in the community that wears masks. Next, keep the discussion simple. Follow the CDC guidelines for wearing masks. Remind children that masks protect others from germs. Also, some experts say they also protect the person behind the mask.
Educators do not want anyone to be unprotected from the virus. After all, sending children to school without protection will only result in a disaster. For the safety of students, encourage masks.
