Sensory-Friendly Santa Event Planned For Youth And Adults With Disabilities

The holidays are filled with joy and cheer, but they aren’t always accessible for all. Ability Connection will host a sensory-friendly Santa event on Dec. 16, 2023, for those who are not comfortable with the typical holiday happenings. 

When: Dec. 16 | 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Where: 7880 Bent Branch Dr #150, Irving
Cost: Free 
Sign Up Here 

This Saturday, Ability Connection is hosting a sensory-friendly Santa experience for children and adults with disabilities. This event is free, but guests are asked to sign up for an available time slot.

“The sensory-friendly Santa event provides a relaxed and calm space for children and adults with intellectual and other developmental disabilities who might not be able to tolerate the usual crowds at the mall and such,” Ability Connection President and CEO Jim Hanophy told Local Profile. 

Ability Connections, located at 7880 Bent Branch Dr #150, Irving, will provide a range of games and crafts, as well as snacks and drinks. Santa will be in attendance to take photos with guests, and a sensory-calming room will be available for those who need it. 

“The Santa photos will take place in a separate and quiet room,” Hanophy said. “We let the person dictate how they want to interact with Santa. Our philosophy is it takes as long as it takes.” 

This is Ability Connection’s third annual event. The organization partners with It’s a Sensory World for this event, and its Sensory Bus will also be on-site for kids to enjoy.

Currently, over 50 people are registered for the event, so a backup Santa and extra space are available for guests' needs. 

“Families are so grateful for this opportunity,” Hanophy said. “One mom told me she had been trying unsuccessfully for seven years to get a photo with Santa and she was so happy to get one.”