Decisions surrounding whether kids need to wear face masks when they go back to school have been prominent in the news recently. We've put together this guide to where to buy the best kids face masks – with options for both teens and younger children – to help you out (for more options, head to our guide to the best best face mask overall).
In England, face masks are currently only required in secondary schools in areas that are under local lockdown rules (such as Birmingham and Manchester). Pupils and staff in these areas will need to wear face coverings when moving around the school and in communal areas where social distancing is difficult, but are not required in classrooms themselves. However, head teachers of schools outside of these areas are allowed to impose face mask rules at their discretion.
In Scotland, face masks are mandatory in all secondary schools, but again, only when moving between classes and in communal areas. In the UK, face masks are also required on all public transport – so even if your child doesn't need one during the school day, they'll need one on the school bus. There are also some exceptions to these rules – for example those who find wearing a face mask makes breathing difficult, and those who need to be able to have their mouths visible for lipreading purposes. Read the full official guidance here. (opens in new tab)
Currently, primary aged children are not required to wear face masks at all in school, and aren't recommended for children under the age of three in any situation. However, if you have a child aged three or over and want to invest in a kids face mask for them, we've got the best options in this guide. These coverings are designed to fit on smaller faces, and also feature kid-friendly patterns.
Read on for our pick of the best places to order kids face masks, in the US and the UK.
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