Parents react to Michigan’s mask mandate that extends to children as young as 2 years old

Michigan has extended a COVID-19 order that implemented restrictions on meetings, restaurants, entertainment venues and more.

The state Department of Health and Human Services expanded the mask requirements to include children ages 2 to 4.

The order runs until May 24.

Dane and Tiffany Teal, who are parents of the next 3-year-old Davis, said they are concerned that new state rules could put parents in a difficult position.

TO READ: Michigan extends the mandate of the COVID mask to children up to 2 years old

“Maybe a lot of people don’t understand two-year-olds, and especially our two-year-olds. He is a master negotiator. He’s good at getting what he wants and if he doesn’t wear a mask, he’ll act like a two-year-old, ”said Dane Teal.

Announcements

“It’s very likely that they will take it out, drop it. He’ll probably get dirty if he lands on the ground and they’re supposed to put him back in his face, ”said Tiffany Teal.

Dr. Rudolph Valentini knows it will be a struggle to mask young children, but he believes the benefit outweighs the inconvenience.

“The mask is a two-way street. It protects the person wearing it and the one on the other side of the mask, ”Valentini said.

Active week of COVID news in Michigan: Everything you need to know

The Teals said they will make the effort, but like many parents, they have no problem giving up the white flag if it gets too fierce.

“I do not expect him to keep going all day. I won’t force it too much and bother him, “said Tiffany Teal.

Announcements

READ MORE