Christmas is just around the corner, and the excitement is building! We all know the magic that Christmas brings, especially for parents and children. A visit to Santa is a cherished tradition, but let’s be honest, the usual bright lights, jangly music, and noisy crowds can be a bit overwhelming. But fear not! If your child has special sensory needs, there’s a solution – a visit to Sensory Santa (also known as Sensitive Santa and Caring Santa). Get ready for that special family Santa photo without the sensory overload!
So, what is Sensory Santa?
Sensory/Sensitive Santas are an amazingly inclusive idea, especially for children with sensory challenges who might find the usual Christmas crowds a bit too much. These special visits happen before the shopping center opens or during less busy times. The whole experience is patient, relaxed, and understanding.
Here’s what your child’s visit to Sensory Santa will be like:
- Quiet – no crowds and no music
- Calm – no bright spotlights or waiting in lines
- Accessible – plenty of room for wheelchairs
- Accommodating – Autism Assistance dogs are welcome in some places
- Understanding – Sensory Santa and his photographer can work with your child’s needs and have a Santa sack full of strategies to get a perfect photo.
Isn’t that a fantastic way to make the holiday season special for every child?!
Where can we see a Sensory/Sensitive Santa on the Gold Coast?
Below I compiled a detailed list of all the Sensory Santas taking bookings across the Gold Coast.
Robina Town Centre | Robina
Children can meet Santa within his Enchanted Forest, with plenty of time to chat and run through their Christmas wish lists in calm and comfortable surrounds.
- Mon 20 Nov
- Tues 21 Nov
- Wed 22 Nov
- Mon 27 Nov
- Tues 28 Nov
- Wed 29 Nov
- Sun Dec 3
- Mon Dec 4
- Tues Dec 5
- Wed Dec 6
Where: Robina Town Centre, Robina Town Centre Drive, Gold Coast.
Westfield Helensvale | Helensvale
Santa is setting aside some time to create a sensory-friendly environment, so you can visit Christmas wonderland and have your photo with Santa in a relaxed environment.
- Sat 25 Nov
- Sat 2 Dec
- Sat 9 Dec
Where: Westfield Helensvale, 1-29 Millaroo Drive, Helensvale.
Westfield Coomera | Coomera
While things will be a little different with Sensitive Santa photography sessions this year, the Westfield Coomera team will be working hard to make sure the moment is as magical as ever.
- Tues 21 Nov
- Sun 26 Nov
- Tues 28 Nov
- Sat 9 Dec
- Wed 13 Dec
Where: Westfield Coomera, 103 Foxwell Road, Coomera.
Pacific Fair Shopping Centre | Broadbeach Waters
Enjoy a special visit to Santa this year in his sparkly pavilion, where all that glitters is gold!
- Sat 18 Nov
- Sat 25 Nov
- Sat 2 Dec
- Sat 9 Dec
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach
Bookings really are essential!
Visits to Sensory Santa are by appointment only so you can be assured that any waiting time will be minimal. Appointments fill up very fast – we recommend you book early to avoid disappointment. Please ensure you book through the links we have provided above to secure your booking asap.
Sensory Santa photos on the Gold Coast
As you plan your family’s holiday festivities this year, seize the opportunity to make it truly special by visiting Sensory Santa. This thoughtful and inclusive experience ensures that the magic of Christmas is accessible to everyone, especially families with children who have special sensory needs.
So, this year, choose to make your family’s Christmas memories extraordinary by opting for a visit to Sensory Santa. It’s not just a photo opportunity; it’s a chance to actively create a magical and inclusive holiday experience that will be treasured for years to come.
