Kids & Masks: What You Need to Know
Between local mask mandates and possible back to school shopping, masks are on everyone’s minds.
In a recent KPAX broadcast, Cindy Farr of the Missoula City-County Health Department clarified that per the Governor’s directive, children ages 5 and up are now required to wear masks and per the local ordinance, they must wear a face covering and not a face shield.
We have revised our list of Local Mask Vendors to feature those individuals and organizations who are making face coverings sized specially for kiddos.
But purchasing a mask is only half the battle We’ve also included some tips and ideas to help get kids to wear them!
Local Mask Vendors for Kids
406 Creative Vibe- $10 masks include filter pocket and adjustable elastic that fits around head.
Bitterroot Mask Lady- Masks are $10 each and she has “ear savers” available.
Darling Doe Designs- Customize with your own wording, names, etc for $10.99
Jill and Grace Designs- Children’s Masks are $7 each or two for $12
Makin Masks Missoula- Pay what you can, $5-$10 each.
Magnolia’s Closet- Masks are $10 each, handmade in Florence, MT.
Missoula Mask Maker- $6 each or 4 for $20.
My Two Dragons- Double layer face masks sized for youth or teens $10 each
My Flower Child Co- Children’s masks are $10, or get a matching parent-child pair for $16.
Pamela Lynn- Zuzana (16yrs) is making them to help fundraise for her semester in Korean Feb. 2021. $4 each can easily send in the mail.
PnutFish- Masks with filter pockets for $16.99 or add adjustable ear straps for $18.99
West of Mercantile- (Coupon code: Missoula15) $15 before discount.
Wendy Bond- Message her for $5 masks or possible donated masks for certain at risk individuals and groups.
Tips to Help Kids Embrace the Mask
The American Academy of Pediatrics reminds parents that children under the age of two should not wear a mask, and that some children with cognitive or respiratory impairments may have a hard time wearing a mask. Children who are higher risk or immunocompromised, may need a medical grade N95 mask. But for the majority of children the AAP recommends talking to kids about germs and explaining that “cloth face coverings help make sure you keep those germs away from your own body.”
Here’s some other ideas to help kids wear their mask:
Consider which style of mask may fit them best or be most comfortable (a scarf, ear loops vs tie straps, or a bandana are all different options that may fit one child better than another).
Let them help pick out the fabric or decorate the mask.
Make sure that the mask fits them correctly and is not too snug or too loose.
Teach kids how to take the mask on and off on their own.
Practice wearing the mask for short periods at home.
Teach kids how to take the mask on and off on their own.
Put a mask on their favorite stuffed animal or toy.
Show your child pictures of other children wearing masks.
Have more than one! Keep on in the car, their backpack, etc.
Encourage good hygiene and frequent hand washing to help keep the mask clean.
This is a stressful time for everyone, and kids are no exception. Let’s be there to help guide them through this, set a good example, and we’ll all get through it together.
Credit: https://www.who.int/