Current science shows there is a much lower rate of transmission from and to children under the age of 9 or 10. Coupled with the recent JAMA study showing the low risk of contracting the virus while on the actual airplane due to the advanced air filtration system, the regs should not require masks on toddlers. There just isn't enough science to back up that requirement.
That might be true (lower transmission), but the 2-yr-old cutoff seems to be based on the small airways at younger ages:
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/coronavirus-young-kids.htmlBabies and toddlers under 2 years old shouldn't wear a mask because:
They have smaller airways, so breathing through a mask is harder for them.
If it's hard for them to breathe and they can't tell anyone or take the mask off by themselves, they could suffocate.
Some homemade masks might have pieces that a baby could choke on, such as strings or elastic bands.
They will likely try to remove the mask, causing them to touch their face a lot. This can increase their risk of catching and spreading the virus.
The American Academy of Pediatrics gives advice for parents:
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/COVID-19/Pages/Cloth-Face-Coverings-for-Children-During-COVID-19.aspxWhat if my child is scared of wearing a face covering?
It is understandable that children may be afraid of cloth face coverings at first. Here are a few ideas to help make them seem less scary:
Look in the mirror with the face coverings on and talk about it.
Put a cloth face covering on a favorite stuffed animal.
Decorate them so they're more personalized and fun.
Show your child pictures of other children wearing them.
Draw one on their favorite book character.
Practice wearing the face covering at home to help your child get used to it.