Cedar Rapids, Iowa, provides a range of autism-friendly holiday activities designed to offer individuals with autism and their families a welcoming and inclusive experience. In this blog post, we share five fun activities and how Circle City ABA supports your family during the holiday season and throughout the year.
Five Autism-Friendly Holiday Activities in Cedar Rapids
- Sensory-Friendly Santa Visits: Look for local malls or community centers that host sensory-friendly Santa visits. These events often provide a quiet and calm environment for children with autism to meet Santa Claus, with reduced sensory stimulation like dimmed lights and minimal noise.
- Garden of Lights at the Brucemore Mansion: The Brucemore Mansion in Cedar Rapids hosts an annual holiday event called the “Garden of Lights.” Check if they offer sensory-friendly nights with adjusted lighting and sound levels. It’s a beautiful place to enjoy holiday decorations and lights.
- Sensory-Friendly Performances: Keep an eye on local theaters and performance venues that offer sensory-friendly versions of holiday shows, such as “The Nutcracker” or holiday plays. These performances are adapted to be more comfortable for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
- Holiday Crafts and Workshops: Many community centers and art studios in Cedar Rapids offer holiday-themed craft workshops. These can be excellent opportunities for children with autism to engage in creative and sensory-friendly activities. Check if they have dedicated autism-friendly sessions.
- Visit the Czech Village and New Bohemia District: Strolling through the Czech Village and New Bohemia District during the holiday season can be a charming and low-key experience. You can explore the local shops, enjoy holiday decorations, and have a calming and sensory-friendly outing.
It’s essential to check with the specific venues and event organizers for their current offerings, as they may change yearly. Additionally, local autism support organizations or groups in Cedar Rapids can be valuable resources for finding the most up-to-date information on autism-friendly holiday activities.
About Circle City ABA
Circle City ABA is committed to helping families like yours make the most of this time of year. With some research and planning, families with children on the autism spectrum can have a fun and memorable holiday season in Iowa. There are plenty of autism-friendly holiday activities, whether visiting a sensory-friendly Santa, looking at light displays, or attending a sensory-friendly theatre performance. By considering your child’s sensory needs and interests, you can create a joyful holiday experience that everyone in your family will enjoy. If you’re ready to start planning for an autism-friendly holiday season, contact our Cedar Rapids location today. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
