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Sensory-Friendly Masks for Kids and Adults with Autism

April is Autism Awareness Month

By Anu Kapur, Publisher, Lower Manhattan Macaroni Kid & Upper West Side Macaroni Kid March 28, 2021

Easterseals Southern California (ESSC), a leading provider of disabilities services, has teamed with socially conscious lifestyle brand Rafi Nova, pioneer of the clear Smile Face Mask, to develop a sensory-friendly mask to benefit children and adults with autism and other disabilities or anyone who finds wearing a conventional mask uncomfortable.

For individuals with autism and other sensory processing challenges or disabilities, mask-wearing can be difficult. A face covering introduces multiple new stimuli, including the fabric's sensation, the pressure of tight elastic bands and the heat and moisture from breath inside the mask.  

According to the CDC, about one-in-54 children has been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). About one-in-six children aged 3–17 years (17%) were diagnosed with a developmental disability as reported by parents, during a study period of 2009-2017, including autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, blindness and cerebral palsy, among others. Per the Autism Society, ASD is the fastest-growing developmental disorder U.S. with 3.5 million+ individuals on the spectrum in U.S.; 500,000 autistic individuals are transitioning to adulthood. 

Features of the mask include:

  • Softness: 100% Mulberry silk lining reduces friction and adjustable jersey knit straps clasp behind the head instead of pinching the ears.
  • Structured: Minimal design and limited seaming. 
  • Secure: Adjustable nose bridge ensures the perfect fit and decreases glasses fogging. 
  • Safe: Special construction lifts the mask off the mouth and highly breathable cotton is used on the exterior.
  • Durability: The mask has an antibacterial layer and is reusable and machine washable
  • Ease: A clasp on the back ensures ease of putting on and removal. When not on the face, the mask may safely remain on the person and not be lost thanks to an extra strap feature that fastens it behind the neck. 
  • Social Story: Comes with visual storytelling designed by therapists that help children understand mask-wearing necessity. 

The Sensory-Friendly Mask retails for $14 (child sizes) and $16 (adults). Available in light blue, light pink, hunter green, black and “Over the Moon” (kids sizes only) HERE.