← Return to How do I convince my child with autism to wear a face mask?

Discussion
Comment receiving replies
@sueinmn

@mitzi3 We have used tshirt fabric for ties, very soft and they seem to hold well on the back of the head.
Are you referring to a homemade mask or one provided by the clinic?
If you must use a clinic-provided mask, I suggest bringing soft fabric -four 1" wide by 10" long strips of an old tshirt or 4 soft, fluffy peices of thick yarn, plus a needle and thread, and sew them in place of the elastic.
If you can furnish the mask, I suggest a soft old tshirt, cut in the shape of a mask about 3-4" high and 5-6" wide for a 4 year old, with 8-10" long ties cut right on the 4 corners. Best if you can double the fabric, and be sure to cut across the shirt so the stretchy part goes around the face for comfort. No pattern needed, if you are moderately handy with a needle, gather it along the two sides to about 2 1/2" wide so it fits his face better.
I second Colleen's suggestion to put one on an animal or doll, or yourself, as well - especially one just like his.
Finally, as with all things with an autistic child, practice wearing masks together until he is comfortable.
Come back and ask if you have more questions.
Sue

Jump to this post


Replies to "@mitzi3 We have used tshirt fabric for ties, very soft and they seem to hold well..."

@sueinmn Your ideas are perfect for doing a mask for a young man! @mitzi3 Even without the additional sensory issues that may accompany an autistic child, keeping clothing in place can be a challenge, I believe. Have several simple masks that can be laundered in a lingerie bag, at hand. As mentioned, demonstrating masks on everyone from dolls to stuffed bears to other humans, may well lead to mimicing [sp?] that behavior.
We look forward to hearing what works out for you.
Ginger