These clear face masks are teacher-approved: 'So excited for my students to see my smile!'
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For better or worse, many schools across the country have announced that they are reopening in the fall for a new academic year. While the decision is met with controversy, one thing is for sure: Teachers need to find ways to navigate the new normal with minimal disruption for their students.
One of the biggest challenges teachers will have to face will be teaching while wearing a face mask. The CDC recommends that educators wear a facial covering when not around members of their immediate household. In particular, the CDC recommends clear face coverings — not face shields, but masks with clear panels — for teachers that have students who are deaf, hard of hearing, have a disability, learning English as a second language, or are very young and learning to read.
Luckily, clear face masks are readily available — and teachers are already hopping on the trend. Below, see some teacher-backed favorites.
CraftyMerMade Face mask with clear window
These double-layered cotton face masks come in four sizes (ranging from 6.5 inches, which is appropriate for kids, up to an XL) and dozens of colors and prints. They’re so popular, they’re an Etsy bestseller.
“Many thanks for the very well made, and very cute face masks,” one teacher wrote. “I ordered them to wear in our PreK classroom. Having our mouths visible to our students is necessary when teaching letter sounds. More importantly, they need to see their teacher’s smiling face!”
Pokeyula Reusable Clear Mask (4 pairs)
These masks come in a set of four different patterns and colors and are made of a breathable fabric. They’re adjustable for different head sizes, too. Worried about the window fogging? Spray some anti-fog on the clear window.
“The clear window is great,” one educator added. “I am a developmental interventionist with early intervention, and a huge part of my job is having the child read my face, lip movements, and expressions. The clear mask allows the children to be able to do that.”
CreationsbyCathi Clear Window Face Mask For the Deaf and Hearing Impaired
This 100 percent cotton mask has a rectangular viewing window that’s perfect for communicating with kids and those with impaired hearing.
“I love it!” one shopper shared. “Made very well! So excited for my students to see my smile!!”
Another added: “Really fast shipping! My first graders will love it!”
PeggysPrettyThings See-Through Face Mask
These adorable face masks have a unique lip-shaped panel made of lightweight vinyl, plus the mask itself is made entirely of soft cotton.
“Great mask and very well made,” one shopper wrote. “I am excited to use with my speech therapy students!”
Another added: “Love my masks to use for the upcoming school year! Love that I was able to pick the thread color to make them match my schools colors!!!”
ZarasCreative Designer Face Mask
This two-layer face mask has a super-soft elastic tie, so it won’t irrirate your ears, plus the superhero fabric is a perfect way to help kiddos feel comfortable around a new teacher.
“Outstanding workmanship,” one shopper shared. “My students will get a kick out of seeing me in these super hero masks. Thank you!”
LillyParisShop Anti-Fog 100% Clear Transparent Face Mask
If you’re looking for an entirely see-through mask, try this bestseller on for size. Micro pores help facilitate airflow, plus it’s treated with anti-fog. It’s 10 percent off, too.
One shopper even loved hers so much, she wore it for a wedding:
“Mask fit great,” she wrote. “Wore for a wedding so you could still see my smile as I walked down the aisle. Needed an anti-fog spray for the August heat, but overall was a great purchase.”
Most importantly, however, it’s great for kiddos:
“The mask came in very quickly and the quality is excellent!” another reviewer shared. “The straps are comfortable and the center of the mask holds its shape so it doesn’t suction to my mouth. It’s much better than a cloth mask for talking to children so they can see my facial expressions without having to remove my mask. Highly recommend!”
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