The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and making memories with loved ones. However, for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, the holidays can sometimes present unique challenges. The hustle and bustle of crowded events and sensory overload can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s essential to find autism-friendly holiday activities in Arizona, ensuring that everyone can join in the festivities. In this blog post, Circle City ABA explores some inclusive and sensory-friendly holiday activities across the Grand Canyon State.
Five Autism-Friendly Activities in Arizona
- Winter Wonderland at the Phoenix Zoo – The Phoenix Zoo hosts a magical Winter Wonderland during the holiday season, featuring thousands of twinkling lights, a glowing tree, and even a visit from Santa Claus. What makes this event particularly special is the “Sensory Safari,” which provides sensory-friendly hours for families with children on the autism spectrum. Sensory Safari nights dim the lights and reduce noise levels to create a more comfortable environment. This allows everyone to enjoy the holiday lights without sensory overload.
- Polar Express Train Ride in Williams – All aboard the Autism-Friendly Polar Express in Williams! For families seeking a unique and inclusive holiday adventure, the Grand Canyon Railway offers autism-friendly train rides. These rides provide a relaxed environment with accommodations for sensory needs, including quiet cars, visual schedules, and trained staff to support passengers on the autism spectrum. It’s a memorable way to experience the magic of the season.
- Holiday Lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park – Scottsdale’s McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park hosts a dazzling holiday lights display each year. On select nights, they offer sensory-friendly experiences, which include quieter surroundings and accommodations for sensory sensitivities. Families can enjoy a train ride through the twinkling lights. Then explore the holiday-themed exhibits in an environment tailored to their needs.
- Sensory-Friendly Santa Visits – Many malls and shopping centers in Arizona now offer sensory-friendly Santa visits. These appointments provide a calm and quiet atmosphere for children with autism to meet Santa Claus. Sensory-friendly Santa visits often include shorter wait times, softer lighting, and the opportunity to book a specific time slot to avoid long lines.
- Botanic Garden Luminarias in Phoenix – The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix illuminates its garden with thousands of luminarias (traditional Southwestern lanterns) during its annual Luminarias event. On designated nights, they offer a sensory-friendly experience featuring reduced lighting and noise levels, making it a peaceful and enchanting outing for families.
Enjoy the Holiday Season
The holiday season in Arizona brims with warmth, beauty, and tradition, offering everyone the chance to partake in these joyous moments. There are many autism-friendly holiday activities in Arizona that cater to the unique needs of individuals with autism. These inclusive events provide a way for everyone to celebrate the holidays with comfort and joy. It’s easy to make unforgettable memories and foster a sense of togetherness. So, this holiday season, consider participating in these wonderful activities that are welcoming, inclusive, and truly magical.
About Circle City ABA
Circle City ABA passionately nurtures progress through play with ABA therapy. We develop programs and services specifically designed for each child. Our child-centered, compassionate approach to therapy brings family goals and clinical best practices in tandem to help kids learn and grow. We’ll work together to define success and help your child achieve it. Contact our admissions team for more information on our services and how we can support you and your child.
