Does mask-wearing hurt children's development?

Bre (No)

The recent worldwide pandemic has undoubtedly had a profound impact on everyday life. Masks are among the most effective measures in significantly slowing the spread of the virus and its variants, thus benefiting the greater good when worn by all. This includes children who are known to transmit COVID-19.

Masks have been deemed safe for children by researchers, and even when worn for prolonged periods, are highly unlikely to have any negative effect. Their use is not unlike sunglasses, which have never been a cause for concern around kids. While it may be an adjustment for some cultures, there are many tools and strategies to help children accept masks and understand their importance. Meanwhile, in societies where masks have long been worn, children show no developmental delays.

Children with visual impairments develop speech and language skills at the same rate as their peers. In fact, seeing less can actually lead to improved observation in other, more resourceful ways. Learning and communication are complex and by no means rely solely on mouth visibility. Studies show kids are not only unhindered by masks in identifying facial expressions, but they prefer studying the eye area regardless.

There’s frankly no evidence to support concerns over potentially harmful effects on kids due to masks, psychologically, physically, or otherwise. Experts agree that the resilience and adaptability of children are certainly able to withstand embracing mask-wearing practices and are confident no long-term detriment or damage will result. Moreover, the proven disease prevention measure is beyond warranted in the name of public safety.

Morgan (Yes)

Forcing children to wear masks is a form of child abuse. Numerous scientific studies demonstrate the negative physical and psychological impacts of mask-wearing on adults and children. Mask-Induced Exhaustion Syndrome (MIES) has emerged since the implementation of mask mandates, resulting in various health conditions such as fatigue, headache, irritability, and brain fog, most notably in adolescents and children. Further, it is completely unreasonable to have kids wear masks around each other, considering people aged 0-19 have a 99.99% COVID-19 survival rate, according to the CDC. 

In addition to the effects of MIES, there is growing concern amongst dentists about the increase in cases of gum disease since the dawn of mask mandates. Also, developing immune and respiratory systems are in danger as pathogenic bacteria have been found to cling to masks, increasing the risk of serious lung diseases like pneumonia, meningitis, and tuberculosis. 

Aside from the damage that masks do to the body, there are growing concerns amongst mental health care professionals about the sociological impacts of mask-wearing. Historically, masks were used to punish slaves as a way to mar one’s identity by obscuring the face. This dehumanizing effect is particularly tragic for young people who are only beginning to learn how to socialize. Masks conceal a vital aspect of human communication and connection--seeing facial expressions and moving lips.

Complicating matters for children is the heavy politicization associated with mask-wearing. When wanting to simply breathe freely is taken as a political stance, kids can feel overwhelmed.

Despite claims about the adaptability of children during the pandemic, mask-wearing is causing undeniable damage to young minds and bodies and should be ended.