All over the country, many popular stores now require face masks for employees and customers. Big brand companies including Walmart, Apple, Best Buy, Whole Foods and several others won’t let people inside without face coverings. This means a lot of difficulty for parents of autistic children who can’t wear a mask for a long time or will not put on a mask at all. Care takers of special needs children who have sensory issues may have to try alternatives to masks and/or in-person shopping altogether. Thankfully, there are some options available.
Mask Alternatives
Traditional masks might be too difficult for a child with sensory issues to get used to. Bothersome ear loops, scratchy textures, and breathing anxieties might be fixed with alternative face covering.
Face shields. These clear face coverings don’t have any earloops, don’t fog up glasses, and don’t come in direct contact with the face. These are usually attached by some sort of hat or headband, and may be more comfortable than a mask for your special needs child. Beware, however, that they will still have to maintain social distancing as the shield will not protect your child or others as well as an actual mask can.
Scarves. There are scarves becoming available on Etsy that can also be used as face masks. Several models do not have any ear loops, and you can find them in a wide selection of styles. They are easier to put on and take off, and won’t tug at the ears. This option can protect the face as much as the average cloth mask will.
Instead of In-Person Shopping
Consider finding other ways to get what you need without leaving home, or without entering the store, when possible. You may not always have this choice, but take advantage of it when you do. Check the websites for information such as curb-side or in-store pickup if you do not want delivery.
Have it delivered. Order as much as you can online. Many restaurants, retailers, and grocery stores often have delivery options that you can access online. You won’t have to leave the house, your can stay with your child mask-free, and save yourself from stress.
Curb-side pick-up. Alternatively, sometimes you need things right away, and in that case you may be able to do a curb-side pick-up. Place your order online, pay online, and drive to the location at the given time. When you get there, an employee will come out and get your information. They will then come out with your order. You won’t have to force a covering on your child, since you won’t need to go into the store. Just keep your child at about 6 feet away from others.
Pick-up In-store. Sadly, not every store will bring your items out, and you will still have to go inside. It is still a great option to pay online and have everything set aside for you. This will reduce the amount of time that you need to be inside, and reduce the amount of time your child will have to cover his or her face.
Stand Up For Your Rights
Be aware that under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), business may have to make reasonable accommodations for your child. This may require that you call ahead to request a curb-side pick-up at a store that does not normally offer it. Do your best to follow guidelines, but also know your rights. Do not fall for false claims that state the ADA exempts people with disabilities from wearing masks in public. Public safety comes first under the law. Business can and should, however help under special circumstances.
Chesley Maldonado is a private tutor and freelance writer. She has been writing professionally for over ten years, and has been in education for nine years. As the homeschool mom of an autistic child, she brings a unique perspective to education and writing.