Both of our children have asthma. It’s really been a challenge to get our older son to consistently wear a mask, so I decided to make something fun and functional.

There are still so many unknowns with the current situation, but I thought it would be useful to share a short how-to that has helped our older son feel safer during those inevitable 6-foot boundary breaches.

Note: This mask is not medical grade, is not meant to prevent 100% of all contaminants and should not be your only line of defense.

What do you need?

Here is a list of materials, but you can improvise with a different brand of mask or foam.

• Nerf Rival Mask
• Foam Strip (or cheaper alternative)
• Mask Filter Insert
• Hot Glue Gun with glue
• Sharp Scissors

Note: Links above are Amazon Affiliate Links.

Steps

1. Place filter inside mouth area, covering any holes in the plastic mask.
2. Glue four corners of the filter directly onto the mask. Try not to use too much hot glue, so you can take this off easily and replace it.
3. Cut the foam so you can loop it around the inside perimeter of the mask.
4. Once you’re happy with the length and size, hot glue the foam in place.
5. Trim off any excess and contour to your child’s face.

Rough contour, using trial-and-error

Viola. You’re done. Now your kiddo has a mask they love to wear in public, that’s not directly blocking their nose and mouth!

Side view