As government officials prepare to lift mask mandates in schools this spring, children will need to readjust to being without face coverings. With COVID-19 vaccinations available for kids aged 5 and older, declining infection rates, and the waning omicron surge, we seem to be heading towards a future without masks. But are we truly ready for this change?
Recently, the Governor of New Jersey announced that the school mask mandate will be lifted on March 7. “Finding a balance between public health and returning to normal is challenging. However, we can responsibly take this step due to the decrease in COVID cases and the increase in vaccinations,” the Governor shared on Twitter. This decision means that children in New Jersey, along with those in states like Delaware and Pennsylvania, may soon attend school without masks. Meanwhile, New York’s mask mandate is set to expire on February 21, leaving some uncertainty for schools.
While many support the easing of restrictions, others argue that it’s premature, especially considering that only 22.9% of kids aged 5-11 are fully vaccinated, according to CDC data. Masks have also played a role in managing COVID-19 exposure and isolation protocols, leading to concerns that removing mandates could result in increased school absences.
Many young children may not even remember a time without masks, particularly those who entered kindergarten in March 2020. For them, wearing a mask has become the norm, and the idea of attending class without one might feel strange. Children have shown incredible adaptability during this time, demonstrating resilience that often surpasses that of adults. Moreover, studies indicate that kids’ ability to interpret emotions has not been hindered by mask-wearing. For many, masks have provided a sense of security amidst the anxiety of the pandemic.
Transitioning away from masks may be daunting for some kids. To help ease this process, we consulted two child psychologists for their insights.
What to Discuss with Your Children to Prepare Them for This Transition
Before speaking with your child, it’s crucial to understand your own feelings about the change. Dr. Emily Johnson, a child development expert, advises, “If you’re feeling anxious, take time to process that emotion so it doesn’t inadvertently affect your child. Conversely, if you’re excited, don’t downplay their feelings. Be open to their responses.”
Dr. Mark Thompson, a family counselor, emphasizes the importance of clear communication. “Children thrive on predictability. Explain that experts now believe it’s safe to remove masks, especially with the rise in vaccinations. Acknowledge that this is a policy change that reflects new information.”
This transition will be significant for elementary-aged children. It’s normal for both kids and adults to feel confused about the situation. It’s essential to validate these feelings, as Dr. Thompson points out.
Not every family may choose to stop wearing masks, and that’s perfectly acceptable. Dr. Johnson advises, “Let your child know that just because mandates are lifted, it doesn’t mean everyone will stop wearing masks. Families can make their own decisions about what feels right for them.”
Some children may find comfort in wearing masks and may need support in adapting to being unmasked. “For certain kids, masks can provide a sense of safety. Help them find ways to cope with feeling more exposed,” Dr. Johnson adds.
Amidst all the uncertainty, it’s beneficial to highlight the positive aspects of not wearing masks. “Encourage your children to think about the fun moments they can enjoy without masks, like seeing their friends’ smiles,” Dr. Thompson suggests.
As we navigate these changes, patience and understanding will be key.
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In summary, as we approach a mask-free environment in schools, it’s vital to prepare our children for the changes ahead. Open communication, understanding their feelings, and highlighting the positives can help ease this transition for everyone involved.
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