Listening to Children

COMMENTARY

I have heard both sides of the argument regarding mandatory masks for children in schools across the country as we see surges in COVID-19 cases.

I pondered the following questions: Have we ever stopped to ask what children want or think? Why or why not?

Children may be young, but they have knowledge and wisdom that often goes unnoticed. Maybe we should invite them the next time there is a school board meeting or legislative session to share their thoughts and concerns. I hope this poem emboldens reflection.

Born with a larynx

Freedom underutilized

Children have a choice

Dr Clark is clinical assistant professor at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine-Greenville and medical director & division chief for Adult Inpatient and Consult-Liaison Services for the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine at Prisma Health-Upstate. He serves as the Diversity & Inclusion Section Editor and Advisory Board member for Psychiatric Times^TM.