The holiday season has arrived once again, and here at the Minnesota Council on Disability, we want to remind you to ensure your gatherings are inclusive and accessible celebrations. Whether someone needs mobility access or sensory accommodations, thoughtful planning can make your holiday gatherings welcoming for everyone.
Understanding and Supporting Individual Needs
Before your holiday events, check with guests about any accommodations they might need. Some people may require step-free entrances, accessible seating, or clear pathways, while others might benefit from a quiet environment, fidget items, or ASL interpretation. Show your friends and family they are valued by incorporating these accessibility considerations into your planning.
Planning Accessible Venues
When planning worship services or dining out, verify building accessibility for people using mobility devices. Since older buildings may have limited accessibility, research venue accommodations in advance and consider alternative locations if needed. Offering a virtual attendance option makes your gathering more accessible for people who have difficulty traveling or prefer to participate from home.
Ensuring Physical Access & Navigation
Start by clearing snow and ice from driveways, sidewalks, and pathways to ensure safe movement. Take time to review your parking area to confirm adequate space for wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and other mobility devices. Inside your gathering space, create clear pathways by removing cords, decorations, and other items that could cause trips or falls. Pay special attention to maintaining wide paths in smaller spaces.
Managing Sensory Needs
Designate a quiet space where guests can take sensory breaks during your gathering. Consider providing ear plugs or encourage guests to bring their own for sound sensitivity needs. Take care to minimize strong scents from candles, room sprays, or incense. Be mindful that food preparation may create strong odors. Listen and respond appropriately if someone expresses concerns about specific smells.
Accommodating Service Animals
Welcome service animals at your gathering. Service animals are not pets – they are trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities.
Planning Inclusive Activities
Choose inclusive games and activities that work for everyone. Consider card games with large print or braille markings, digital games with screen reader compatibility, or board games with easy-grip pieces. Simple activities like trivia or storytelling can include everyone.
Supporting Independence
Create a welcoming space where people can ask for what they need. Let guests know at the start of your gathering that you’re happy to make adjustments. Being proactive about support helps everyone feel more comfortable asking for accommodations.
Supporting Mental and Emotional Well-being
The holiday season can be challenging for many reasons. Some people may be grieving loved ones, managing chronic pain or illness, or struggling to access needed accommodations. Others might feel overwhelmed by gift-giving expectations, social gatherings, or travel arrangements. Practice patience and understanding during the holidays, recognizing that everyone faces different challenges.
By raising awareness about disability accommodations, we can all contribute to creating truly inclusive holiday celebrations. Through thoughtful planning and consideration, we make our gatherings places where everyone is welcomed with respect and dignity.
More Information
Learn more about the topics discussed in this article:
- Disability Parking: Learn about parking space requirements when planning your gathering.
- Snow Removal: Get details about snow and ice removal for safe pathways.
- Access for Businesses: Understand accessibility needs when choosing venues.
- Service Animals: Learn more about welcoming service animals properly.
- Additional Resources: Find more disability-related resources in Minnesota.