Mask Mandates Aren't Hindering Childhood — Your Resistance Is

We can breathe comfortably while wearing masks — this is backed by scientific evidence. A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Respiratory Public Health examined the impact of both cloth and surgical masks on athletic performance. It found that young, healthy participants experienced no significant drops in arterial oxygen levels, even while undergoing intense exercise. Thankfully, second graders aren’t participating in such strenuous activities. However, they also shouldn’t be putting their grandparents at risk by spreading the Delta variant. It’s not the mask mandates that are ruining childhood; it’s your unwillingness to adhere to basic Covid safety measures.

Since March 2020, my kids have stayed within our property line, masked up, while their childhood experiences have been limited by those who refuse to take the pandemic seriously. Their opportunities to play with friends have been severely restricted, especially with the resurgence of Delta.

I’m looking at you, mask mandate opponents: there’s a striking overlap between those against mask mandates and those unwilling to get vaccinated. You are the ones making grocery shopping a game of Frogger to dodge unmasked individuals. You are the ones ignoring the staggering Covid death toll, which has exceeded that of World War II. You are the ones organizing “Free the Smiles” rallies and propagating falsehoods about the supposed dangers of mask-wearing.

Yes, I just referred to a sitting Congresswoman in a less-than-flattering manner, but considering her comparison of mask mandates to the Holocaust, that label is deserved.

Mask Mandates Are for Your Protection

My children wear masks everywhere. They run around in them even in the heat of summer, much like how vaccines helped eradicate yellow fever in the United States. We have a vaccine for Covid, too, yet some refuse to get vaccinated, perpetuating the ongoing crisis. Without mask mandates, unvaccinated children could easily contract the Delta variant and unknowingly pass it on to their unvaccinated family members. If you’re complaining about mask mandates, it’s likely you haven’t been vaccinated either.

Imagine an entire family succumbing to Delta. Do you want to contract Covid? It’s not a simple yes or no question—it’s a virus that can invade your respiratory system and potentially end your life. Yes, it can be fatal. Just ask those who have suffered its consequences.

Mask Mandates Safeguard Children

Covid can harm children. In Columbia, South Carolina, hospitals are overwhelmed with pediatric patients suffering from respiratory illnesses. Dr. Anna Kathryn Rye Burch, a pediatric infectious disease specialist, noted that they are witnessing a surge in cases that far surpasses previous waves. The American Academy of Pediatrics highlights that 33% of children hospitalized due to Covid end up in the ICU. While some children may remain asymptomatic, many can fall critically ill.

Do you want your child to be one of those in the ICU? By opposing mask mandates, you’re implying that you don’t mind if they do. Experiences that genuinely disrupt childhood include hospitalization, intubation, and death—not wearing a mask.

How Difficult Is It?

Let’s break it down: what does it cost you and your children to wear masks and protect others? It’s just a piece of cloth covering your mouth and nose. No one’s suggesting your child should wear a full hazmat suit. And let’s be honest: no one wants to return to virtual schooling, right?

It’s just fabric, it covers your face. If your glasses fog up, just adjust them slightly. Why is this such a burden? Studies have confirmed that masks are safe to wear. If you think otherwise, you might be falling for misinformation and conspiracy theories. Isn’t it worth asking your child to wear a mask to potentially save lives?

No? You’re teaching your kids to be selfish and unhelpful, much like you. During World War II, our ancestors endured rationing and made sacrifices for the common good. They went without basic necessities. You can’t even ask your kids to wear a simple mask.

Your Child’s Childhood Is Safe

Virtual learning disrupts childhood. Not engaging with peers disrupts childhood. Masks? Not really. Covid disrupts childhood. Losing family members disrupts childhood. You can find fun masks featuring Baby Yoda.

Mask mandates not only save lives but also protect kids who choose to wear them from being bullied by their peers who might ridicule them for being cautious. Yes, that happens.

So, please stop with the “Save the Smiles” rallies. Stop whining about mask mandates. Your refusal to comply has brought us to this point. We could have mitigated this pandemic with simple precautions, but your defiance has delayed our progress. Accept the consequences. Like children, you may not be equipped to make informed public health decisions, and therefore, mask mandates should remain in place.

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Summary:

Mask mandates are not hindering childhood; rather, the refusal to comply with basic Covid safety protocols is what poses a threat to children’s well-being. Studies confirm that masks do not impede breathing and can protect against the spread of Covid, especially the Delta variant. It is crucial to prioritize the health of children and families by supporting mask mandates, which help prevent severe illness and deaths.