What would YOU do?

Person with crutches

How well do you stack up against our disability etiquette experts? Check out these 5 everyday situations and let us know: What would you do?

At the grocery store, you see someone on crutches reaching for something on a shelf that seems to be just out of their reach.

What would you do?

Person with crutches

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Person with crutches

Bridget says... Ask them if they need any help.

Photo of Bridget

"As with anyone you don’t know, it's best to ask permission before reaching for their groceries. It might take longer for someone with a disability to reach a high shelf, but that doesn't mean they can't do it. It's best not to assume someone needs assistance."

People in line
You're next in line for a public restroom, and the only stall open is a wheelchair accessible stall. You do not see anyone with a visible disability in line.

What would you do?

People in line

Beth says... Ask if anyone minds you using the accessible stall.

Photo of Beth

"Not all disabilities are obvious or visible, and you never know if someone else may need that stall. Ask generally if anyone in line minds you using the accessible stall. Some people with disabilities might not want to be asked a personal question like this directly, but I'm the type to speak right up!"

Two people having coffee
You meet up with an old friend for coffee and learn that one of their children has recently been diagnosed with autism.

What would you do?

Two people having coffee

Theresa says... Ask them to tell you more.

Photo of Theresa

"I have two sons with disabilities, and while it can be challenging at times, it is also simply a part of what makes them each who they are. Their disabilities do not define them. Instead of offering condolences, I'd like you to ask more about who they are, take time to understand their disabilities, and ask how our lives are impacted – you might be surprised by the answers!"

Blind person
You're talking with someone who is visually impaired. When you leave the conversation, you say "See you later!" and don't realize it until you've already walked away.

What would you do?

Blind person

Beth says... Don't worry about it.

Photo of Beth

"Phrases like 'gotta run' and 'see ya later' are common expressions. When someone gets awkward about using a phrase like that, it tells me they are focusing far too much on my blindness rather than on the conversation we're sharing together. It's especially awkward to come back to apologize for it, so it's best to just move on."

Person in wheelchair
While at the shopping center with your child, a person using a wheelchair enters at the same time. Your child runs over and asks the person why they are using the chair.

What would you do?

Person in wheelchair

Ben says... Let the child ask questions.

Photo of Ben

"Are you kidding? I love kids' curiosity! When children are interested in the reason that I am in a wheelchair, it's much better than having a child just walk by with a blank stare. Usually, I try to give a fun and creative answer or explanation, something to engage that child and hopefully have them walk away smiling. Don't ever be afraid to ask questions, whether it is you, your child or your grandchild. The disability community welcomes your interest!"

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Photo of Bridget

Bridget Houlihan served as the national child representative for Easter Seals in 1991. She currently resides in Chicago where she has been a social media strategist and writer in corporate communications for more than 10 years.

Photo of Beth

Beth Finke is the author of two books: a children's book called "Hanni and Beth: Safe & Sound" and a memoir, "Long Time, No See." She teaches memoir-writing classes for senior citizens in Chicago and works part-time at Easters Seals Headquarters moderating our Easter Seals blog.

Photo of Theresa

Theresa Forthofer has more than 25 years of non-profit executive management experience and 19 years of personal experience in the world of disabilities. She has three children: two boys with muscular dystrophy and autism ages 19 and 13, and a 16-year-old daughter.

Photo of Ben

Ben Trockman is a 24-year-old college student and is currently working on a degree in PR. In 2006, he was involved in a dirtbike accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down and unable to breathe on his own. Always positive, he says his injury has made him a better man and more apt to helping people in need, especially individuals with disabilities. In 2012, he served as the National Ambassador for Easter Seals.

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