Gosh, this is even hard to write. I certainly did not see masks sticking around this long, but they are in many places… so how can we help them wear their mask? Whether on an airplane, at school, or anywhere else, they might be required. Or if you’re just more comfortable with your child wearing a mask! That’s okay too, mama!

The golden rule: how can we make masks fun!

We all know toddlers (and younger kids) like control. So when they are forced to do something unfamiliar, like wearing a mask, they want to resist.

These tips work! 

1. PRACTICE

This is obviously something you'll tweak for your family's needs!

But here’s an example: you’re going on an airplane. First, start the conversation before your trip; we're going on a trip! It will be so much fun, and "on airplanes, we wear masks!” Second, pretend play. Pretend your rug or a big box is an airplane. Practice putting on your masks before walking into the airport. Walk through security…all the way to the airplane. “Okay, let’s have a sip of water. Okay, masks back on!”

If it’s a big transition like wearing a mask at school again, you’ll start the conversation and practice! You can also wear a mask around the house at different times, so they become more comfortable seeing it and wearing it.

"Do you want to watch Frozen in your Elsa mask?" or whatever movie or show they like!

2. FUN MASKS

We love this dog, dog/cat combo, or animal face masks. The tongues make it so much fun! When my toddler puts on this mask, he is transformed into a dog (or so we pretend)! He barks at everyone, but hey, he’s wearing the mask.

Another great tip is to let them color their own masks - disposable masks or plain fabric masks with fabric pens. Coloring their own personalized masks will create a positive association with the masks. They’ll also be so proud to show their mask off! 

With the disposable masks they could even color a new one every morning or night time! Boom, added an easy activity, you go-getter mama, you. 

Anything to make it more fun! Get creative!  

3. Be careful how YOU talk about masks

This can even be something so subtle. You've been wearing a mask all day, and you get in the car and rip it off "phew! So glad to take this off." Your toddler picks up on these things.

Tell them about why they wear masks in a positive way. "We wear shoes to keep our feet safe; we wear masks to keep ourselves and our friends safe!” 

4. Remain calm

If they start to resist the mask, play it cool. The more you try to force it, the more they tend to resist. And mask-wearing can become a negative experience.

Give them a second to not react when they rip it off. Regroup.  

If you are somewhere, you can step outside; this is an excellent way for everyone to take a breather. But set a clear expectation. “We’re going to step outside for a mask break! When you’re ready to go back inside, we’ll put the mask back on!”

If you're somewhere you can't physically walk away, the answer is snacks. Masks aren't required when eating, so it's a great way to take a break. Again, explain what's happening. “Your mask is falling off! That’s okay; it looks like the doggie needs a snack. Let’s let him take a snack break, and then we’ll put the doggie mask back on! Do you want cheddar bunnies or a pouch?”

Lollipops also help when you need a little extra time. But remind them, we'll put it back on afterward!