Irish parents have been helping one worried mum out online who says her 9-year-old detests wearing a mask, as new rules come into play this morning.
She took to social media to ask other mums and dads how their kids were handling the idea of wearing a mask in school, and since posting she has been given some great tips.
The latest advice sent to schools on Tuesday night, will see pupils from third class and up having to wear a mask from today.
These children - aged nine and over - will also have to wear masks on public transport, retail and other indoor public settings, with the measures being reviewed in mid-February, according to the Government.
The mother-of-two wrote on social media saying: “Just got an email from school about mandatory wearing of face masks starting tomorrow.
“My head is a bit all over the place about this. I just want to know your thoughts on the situation.
“I have a younger child that doesn’t need to wear a mask but has absolutely no issues with them, it’s my 9-year-old that absolutely hates them.
“He’s tried every type I could find and just hates them on his face.”
Other parents and childcare workers jumped to give their advice to any parent struggling with kids not wanting to wear a mask, with the first person writing: “Maybe get him/her a mask with something they love on it, like a character or a place or something?"
Another advised: “Kids copy their parents quite a bit, so try to not display too much disdain for the mask when you’re putting yours on or wearing it.”
A third wrote: “Never underestimate the power of a positive mental attitude.
"Don’t let him see you being concerned. He was 7 when Covid started. He’s well used to masks being a part of everyday life.”
A fourth said: “You need to be handing him the mask on route to school with absolutely no fuss.
"Simply say ‘here you go now, put that on like the rest of us,’ and you will be surprised how quickly he will stop protesting the mask…
"It’s all about the attitude you have, make it funny or playful rather than serious and scary."
