AUSTIN, Texas — Face masks can be a little irritating for all of us, but parents and caretakers of children with Autism say that irritation is taken to a whole new level for their loved ones.  

Dripping Springs mom Thalia Seggelink says it's been a struggle to get her autistic 15-year-old son Lance to wear his mask.  

“It’s an unusual and strange request to make of a kid that doesn’t really understand what’s going on," said Seggelink. 

She says she doesn't know what she'll do if masks end up being a requirement at Lance's school, if and when it reopens. Lance’s therapist, J.B. Hewell, with The Autism Center for Treatment says it's important for parents and caretakers of children like Lance to quickly develop a routine around the mask.  

“Adding a set of rules would also be great. If you have a set of rules for your child, add wearing a mask would also be very very helpful," said Hewell. 

For more tips for parents and caretakers of children with Autism, you can visit TACT’s website.