If there’s anything 2021 has taught us is that pandemic parenting is draining! Should Kids Wear Masks? Seems to be a question that pops up again and again. And yet, I’ve never found a definitive answer. I know I’m not the only one wishing that they could just be told what to do. Just give me the answers to this and many other questions like it.
With both kids preparing to begin their school journeys next month and the news blarring with an inevitable winter lockdown, like most my stress levels are high. I can’t help wonder whether despite continued lowering of restriction, whether I should begin getting the kids to wear a mask too. We’ve avoided public transport until now, but it’s inevitable we’ll have to take a bus, taxi or tube at some point. But also what about schools, classroom are basically germ factories, right? G & I are both fully vaccinated and the kids only 3 & 4. However vaccines only offer 60% protection and I’ve heard of at least 3 people in the past week, who are fully vaccinate but still caught Covid. Personally I will continue to wear my mask, but what about them? Still unable to decide I hit the Facebook Fam, more specifically our private Don’t Keep Mum group on Facebook.
Parent Panel
I put it o our panel and asked them directly: Should kids wear masks? Here’s what some of them said.
I think they should, it’s not much to ask to safeguard others. it’s a very tricky one. I am seriously vulnerable so I would prefer they did but would it be enforceable with little ones, I am not sure.
-Retired teacher and mother of 2
Teachers yes. But not once in classroom and only in primary school as bubble contained. Children no. also kids and snot etc masks would get wet quickly they aren’t going to change them and then become void- it’s so tricky
-NHS worker & mother of 2
Absolutely should. Lily has had to wear masks from class to class in high school. My son (6) wears a mask sometimes out of his own will. I don’t think it’s much to ask
-Anon