Sensory-Friendly December Events in Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas

The holiday season is here, and it’s all about inclusivity and joy for everyone. In December 2023, various locations in Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas are hosting sensory-friendly events tailored for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorder, and other special needs. Here’s a roundup of these events, complete with dates and links for more information.

1. Santa Cares Events

Date: Sunday, December 3, 2023 (Check specific location for confirmation)

Details: Enjoy a calm Santa Magic photo experience in an inclusive environment. These events also support Autism Speaks.

Benefits:

• No purchase necessary for booking.
• Reduced lighting and music.
• Sensory-friendly trained Santa and staff.

Advance registration to limit crowds.

• Link: Santa Cares

2. Sensory-Friendly Days at the Museum

Date: Monday, December 18, 2023, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Location: Houston

Admission: $8 Per Person

Details: This event at the Children’s Museum Houston offers a less crowded environment with light and sound reduction, extra visual safety signage, and designated quiet rooms.

Link: Sensory-Friendly Days

3. Sensory Santa at Ingram Park Mall

Date: Sunday, December 10, 2023, 9 – 11am CST

Location: San Antonio, TX

Details: An inclusive event where children of all abilities can meet Santa in a comfortable environment at Ingram Park Mall.

Link: Sensory Santa Tickets

4. Sensory-Friendly Photos & Breakfast with Santa

Date: Saturday, December 9, 2023, 9 – 10:30am CST

Location: Hurst Recreation Department, Hurst, TX

Details: A calming event with breakfast items, a Christmas craft, photos with Santa, and more. Free admission, but reservation required.

Link: Sensory-Friendly Breakfast with Santa

5. Special Needs Movie Screenings

Date: December 9, 2023, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Locations: Studio Movie Grill in The Colony, Plano, Dallas, Arlington, and Fort Worth

Details: Movies presented with lights up, low volume, and a welcoming atmosphere for moving around and expressing joy.

Tickets: Free for children with special needs and their siblings. Adult tickets at before-noon prices.

Link: Special Needs Movie Screenings

Tips for a Sensory-Friendly Holiday Season

• Plan Ahead: Check event details and prepare for the environment (e.g., noise-cancelling headphones).
• Familiarize with the Setting: If possible, visit the location beforehand to acclimate your child to the setting.
• Create a Safe Word/Signal: Establish a word or signal for when your child feels overwhelmed and needs a break.
• Bring Comfort Items: Allow your child to bring a favorite toy or comfort item to help them stay calm.
• Be Flexible: Be ready to leave early if the event becomes too overwhelming for your child.

These events are a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy the holiday season in a sensory-friendly environment. Remember to check the provided links for specific details and registration information. Let’s make this December a memorable and inclusive one for all! 🎅🎄✨

About the Authors

Apara Autism Centers is a leading provider of ABA therapy in Texas to children ages 18 months and up. We understand the difficulty of dealing with uncertainty and are prepared to assist you with our collaborative developmental therapy support. If you’re looking for ABA therapy near you, we have centers in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and surrounding areas. Apara Autism Centers employs a team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT) that can assist you with resources to help comfort your child during stressful times. We include parent training as collaborative support for the whole family. If you need more information, don’t hesitate to call (844) 810-2344 or contact us at info@aparaautism.com with your questions or to enroll. We accept most insurance plans and offer full and part time programs as well as in-home therapy options with no waitlist. AND for those in the San Antonio area, Apara San Antonio is now accepting TRICARE!