I’m kinda new to it here but having read the tips and advice for Christmas with autism thought I offer one or two tips and advice of my own. I have Aspergers myself as well as my father and my good friend so know a good bit about it and my own limitations.
So here’s my advice for Christmas shopping and what I do. What works for me might work for you or might not since everyone is different. Here’s my advice as follows:
1. Planning is key. Plan well ahead when and where you want to go for your Christmas shopping.
Try to plan for doing it as early as possible, in regards to both the date and time. It’s better to go early as possible since places will be more quieter than later on when it gets busy and overwhelming.
It’s also good since you will have more time as well and won’t have to worry about stresses of travel and can easily come home in good time, especially if you have a strict routine and have to have or do things at a certain time like eating or going to bed.
2. Don’t be afraid to go out of your own area. Sometimes it’s better going into a larger place like a city centre or larger retail park since there’s more room to move around and for you to maintain social distancing. The added benefit of going to larger shops is more space than a a small confined shop with more staff to help you if you need help.
3. Ask yourself and those your getting gifts for is there anything in particular they would like. When you find something as a Christmas present, ask yourself “Would my…like it?” “Is it something they will make use of?” “Is it worth the money?” If you know that person as well as yourself then finding a suitable gift shouldn’t be much of a problem.
Also remember when you do buy something for someone for Christmas, keep a good hold of the recite, and don’t be ashamed of saying to this person on Christmas “I have the recite if it’s too big or small”, especially if you buy someone clothes or similar like shoes.
4. Shopping for Christmas food shouldn’t be a chore. Remember to plan on when to go and don’t be afraid to go out of your home area or to a larger supermarket. Sometimes it’s better to do that as there will probably be more available and more space to move around.
As always try and go as early as possible to avoid the rush and excess noise and people etc. Most supermarkets have quiet hours for those with autism so it’s best to check your main choice of supermarket and when these hours run from and to.
Try and get longer life food early as possible and then get fresh food shortly before Christmas instead of trying to get everything all in one big shop just before Christmas, especially since demand might be higher as well as the price for certain things.
Christmas is a time to enjoy yourself and let loose, even though it might be stressful for some and is usually stressful for a lot of people. Whatever happens just remember to stop, breathe, take your time. Remember what you can’t do today can be done tomorrow.
I hope that these tips and advice will help you and others out this Christmas. Have a merry Christmas and stay safe and stay well.
