1. Model masks.
Wear your mask around your child. Talk about why you are wearing a mask. Look at photos of your child's favorite characters or other people that wear a mask.
2. Customize your child's mask for comfort and style.
Have your child try on different masks to see what they like and feels best for them. Allow them to make a choice and get involved by decorating either a paper or fabric mask for use. REMEMBER that comfort is key.
3. Have a variety of masks that your child likes.
Use a different mask for different activities: for example, a cloth mask when going to the grocery store, and a paper mask for taking a walk around the block. Having several different masks allows for adequate laundering.
4. Have your child practice wearing their mask.
Start small and build up gradually, so your child feels relaxed and calm. Have your child first hold the mask up to their face. Practice placing the loops around their ears, then covering their mouth and then their nose with the mask. Provide positive reinforcement throughout the process to end with success.
5. As often as possible, offer choices.
Give your child the opportunity to see how and when to wear a mask: for example: "Do you want to wear your mask as soon as we get out of the car, or wait until we get to the door of the grocery store?" Remind your child that wearing a mask ISN'T a replacement for social distancing.
