Guest Author - Jessica Steinmetz

I love Christmas, but especially going out for shopping. My father and I go out intentionally on Black Friday to be a part of it all and find the deals. I do not mind the crowds. In fact, I like it. Sure some people bump into my chair and some people are inconsiderate, but that's all part of life. I'm sure if I walked, I'd get bumped into also.

The jolly music chimes, the red and green lights blink, and Santa is at the mall. Yes, it’s Christmas time.

For some people with disabilities, Christmas brings on a sense of sadness and loneliness. You might feel like you don’t belong and don’t know what to do to feel better.

Over the next few weeks, we will prepare you for the holiday season. This week we will focus on holiday shopping. Shopping can be difficult, but thank goodness, it is doable.

So, let’s go shopping. Exchanging gifts is a huge part of the holiday season. If you have a disability, you might not want to go out and deal with all the people. Well, you have three choices. You may go out and shop, buy through mail order, or shop online.

First, let’s talk about the mall. Many people try to avoid shopping at the mall during the Christmas season. I understand that sometimes it can be difficult to navigate. I take it on as a challenge and enjoy it. We all know at the mall more people to stare at you, more people asking questions, and more sales persons to deal with. However, you have a right to go out like everybody else. If staring bothers you, just smile at them and go on. People only stare because they are curious.

Personally, I like to see the decorations, excited children, and be a part of the hustle and bustle. The negative side is: long lines and it can be difficult getting around a crowded store especially if you have a mobility disability.

Now we’ll move on to mail order shopping. When you use mail order shopping, you either call in the order or send in a list of what you want. When buying clothes, you should check on the return policy. The negative side is you can’t touch and “see” the product until it gets there. You also need to deal with order forms or a sales person on the phone.

Lastly, Internet shopping has been increasingly popular. You can do it right in your own home and fill out order forms with a few clicks. I personally enjoy shopping online because of a greater selection of stores, greater independence; it’s fast, and fun. The negative side is you need a credit card (for many places), and you don’t get the interaction like you do at the mall. Also, you have to order products in advance so they arrive before the holidays.

I suggest using a combination of all of these shopping methods.