Dear NCK Parents, 

We're quickly approaching some re-opening dates in the state of Ohio!

May 12 - Retail stores

May 15 - Salons, Barbershops, Outdoor dining

May 21 - Indoor dining

As we begin to prepare our families to venture out into the public again, we would like to provide you with some resources for mask-wearing, specifically for our New City Kids!

Click here to watch this helpful mask-wearning story!

Also, the CDC has provided instructions on how to wear a face mask as well as instructions on how to make them....click here!

The NCK Team would like to thank NCK parent and occupational therapy assistant Rachel Bonar for providing us the helpful information below:

*Working through trauma triggers related to mask wearing*
created by Carolyn Fitzgibbon, adapted by Breanna Lynch; April 2020

For clients with a trauma history (and many other reasons), wearing a mask can be triggering.  Here are some things to consider if a client's finding the need to wear a mask/face covering especially challenging:

1. Find a sensory modulation technique that they find grounding and
will bring them back from any flashbacks/memories/triggers a
sympathetic response; eg using the dive reflex, safe scent, holding
something frozen, music, etc. Practice this when regulated to ensure
it is grounding.

2. Start to discuss the differences between using a mask and why it is not like the trauma sensations; eg a mask is for safety, you have
complete control over taking it on or off, you can breath while the
mask is on. * Include education about how the brain is trained to look for similarities/bring up thoughts based on past experiences, but pointing out the differences will promote safety.

3. Discuss the mask sensation that insights discomfort.  Look for
masks that are not tight over the mouth or have a different way of
providing protection; eg a face shield or a mask that is over the
bridge of the nose, but is loose from there down so that it is not
tight, and infinity scarf, etc.  Think about something that could be
taken off quickly and easily, eg the mask is tied on with a sort of
headband that can be lifted off. Different masks may be needed for a
graded exposure.

4. Try exploring scents that are safe, and remind your client of the
present moment. The scent could be put onto the material or perhaps
near the nose (depending on the scent) .

5. Remind your client that they can still breathe and use their mouth.
They could try chewing a strong mint or gum.

6. Look at how they would use the sensory modulation techniques in
combination with the mask.

7. Look at a graded introduction to the mask: touch the mask, try it
over the nose but not over the mouth for 3 seconds (over several
sessions or days) in a therapy session, etc.  Use a rehearsed safety
script; eg “I am in the present moment and I am safe.  I am trying on
a mask as I want to and I have complete control over this sensation.”

With Love & Care, 

The NCK Team