Is it OK for my child to wear a mask when doing Judo?

Yes!

For most children it is entirely fine to wear a mask at Judo both when practicing and when watching demonstrations, resting etc.

Best practice currently is still evolving, however some consistent themes are for participants to wear masks when listening to the instructor. Often wearing a mask when being the passive partner in an exercise or being thrown.

Instructors will often not wear masks whilst teaching so that lip reading is possible and voice clearer.

Clubs should also be focusing efforts into ventilation; so expect open windows (you may want to check if it is ok for your child to wear a t-shirt under their gi if they don’t already as it might be chilly. Hand gels might be in use and as always you should ensure your child is wearing a freshly washed judo suit and are themselves clean and healthy.

Some clubs will have testing rules in place, typically lateral flow tests. If your child has any symptoms they should definitely not attend Judo classes at this time.

Masks for most people are a small inconvenience that helps protect other participants. If your child has a medical reason to not wear a mask seek advice from your doctors and speak with the club to see what solutions can be found.