Autism Pictures with Santa!!

Autism Pictures with Santa!!

Come join us at High Hopes for a special event where children with autism can meet Santa Claus and take pictures with him! This is a great opportunity for your little ones to enjoy the holiday spirit in a safe and understanding environment. Let's create some magical memories together! Don't miss out on this heartwarming experience.

A sensory-friendly pictures with Santa event is a special event designed to create a calm, inclusive, and stress-free environment for children and families with sensory sensitivities, including those with autism or other sensory processing challenges. These events are tailored to reduce the overwhelming stimuli typically present in traditional Santa visits, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Here are some key features that are commonly part of a sensory-friendly event:

1. Reduced Noise and Lights:
2. • Dimmed lights or softer lighting to avoid harsh, flickering, or overly bright lights.
   • Lower background music volume or no music at all to minimize sound overload.
3. Longer Visit Times:
4. • A more relaxed schedule with longer time slots so families don’t feel rushed.
   • A calm and unhurried interaction with Santa, allowing children to approach at their own pace.
5. Quiet Spaces:
6. • Designated quiet areas where families can take a break if they become overwhelmed.
7. Familiarization Time:
8. • Opportunities for children to meet Santa ahead of time, or for Santa to engage with children in a gentle, low-pressure way.
9. Sensory-Friendly Decorations:
10. • Avoidance of overwhelming or overly busy holiday decorations.
    • Use of softer colors or simple holiday-themed decor to create a peaceful atmosphere.
11. No Forced Interactions:
12. • Santa may be sitting or standing a little further away, allowing children to approach him if they are comfortable.
    • No pressure to sit on Santa's lap if the child prefers to stand or sit beside him.
13. Sensory Toys/Items Available:
14. • Offering calming fidget toys or other sensory-friendly items for children to hold during the visit.
15. Trained Staff:
16. • Staff members trained in working with children with sensory sensitivities, helping to facilitate a smooth, comfortable experience.
17. Pre-Registration or Limited Attendance:
18. • Limited number of families per session to avoid overcrowding.
    • Advanced registration to control the flow and ensure an appropriate number of visitors.

• Arrival: Families arrive at a designated check-in area where they can be greeted by staff and receive information about the event.
• Pre-Visit Orientation: Families have the option to tour the space, familiarize themselves with Santa, and get a feel for the environment before the actual photo-taking.
• Visit with Santa: Families take turns visiting with Santa, with enough time for photos and interaction. If desired, families can choose a quiet spot away from Santa’s chair for a more comfortable photo.
• Post-Visit Relaxation: After the visit, families can enjoy some downtime in a quiet area, grab sensory-friendly treats, or take home small goodies.

• Inclusivity: The event helps ensure that everyone, regardless of sensory sensitivities, can enjoy the magic of visiting Santa.
• Reduced Anxiety: By providing a calm environment, it reduces the chance of overstimulation or sensory overload.
• Positive Memories: Families can make lasting, positive memories of the holiday season, without the stress typically associated with crowded or noisy Santa events.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

High Hopes, 301 High Hopes Court, Franklin, United States