The holiday season is up and running and while there’s no shortage of family activities in the area, it’s not easy for our children with special needs to participate in the theatrical light shows and blaring music. Fortunately, we live in an inclusive Metroplex that welcomes all. Below you will find a list of local activities for our children with special needs. If you should know of others, please comment below. All children deserve to have the full experience of the holiday season!
The Nutcracker
December 9th, 2pm
Dallas Repertoire Ballet will be hosting The Nutcracker for children with sensory processing disorders and special needs. They will also supply crafts, a theatrical sensory board, and photo-ops with the cast. This show a must for our sensory-sensitive crowd. Snacks, toys, and soothers will be permitted in the theatre and if there is a need to go to and fro during the performance, the performance will be also broadcasted on monitors in the lobby or in the specialized sensory room. Sitting still and staying quiet will not be necessary in this all-access show that is truly made for the whole family! Call the Eisemann Center at 972-744-4650 for tickets.
Jingle All the Way
December 9th, 10am
Alamo Drafthouse in Richardson changes it up by keeping the lights up and the sound down in a family-friendly atmosphere where the “no talking” rule is not enforced. A part of their ongoing Alamo for All movie program for young families and guests with special needs, they will feature the holiday movie Jingle All the Way. Grab some breakfast and take the family to an event that everyone will enjoy! Contact the Alamo Drafthouse for tickets.
Special Time with Santa
December 16th at Christ Fellowship in McKinney, 12pm – 4pm
Especially Needed, an organization that seeks to create all-inclusive events for our special needs children, will be hosting a special time with Santa, Mickey, Minnie, and Olaf. The accommodating atmosphere is guaranteed to bring smiles to the faces of all with great photo opportunities and milk & cookies. Register with Eventbrite for this FREE event. Donations accepted.
8th Annual Holiday Party
December 16th, 1:30am-2:30pm
The National Autism Association of North Texas is hosting their Annual Holiday Party and it promises to be tons of fun for the whole family. Music, crafts, Dickey’s BBQ, allergen-free desserts, a bounce house, and, of course, pictures with Santa! The event is free, hosted by Prince of Peace in Plano.
Santa’s Helpers
December 16, 9am -12pm
You may want to plan a day trip to shop in Fort Worth on the 16th, as Therapy and Beyond will have volunteers and board certified ABA therapists available to look after children with special needs while you finish up your holiday shopping. The event is free, but be sure to sign at Eventbrite.
Studio Movie Grill
December 23rd, Ferdinand and December 30th, Star Wars Episode VIII
Studio Movie Grill hosts Special Needs Screenings every Saturday at 11AM. While you can’t buy tickets online, simply contact them if your family wishes to attend. Lights are up and the volume is turned down so that children have the ability to move around, talk and even dance in the aisles during these all-inclusive movies. The events are free for children with special needs and their siblings.
Morgan’s Wonderland, San Antonio
December 8, 19, 15-23rd 4pm-9pm
If you’re visiting family or taking a road trip to San Antonio, you cannot miss the world’s first theme park designed specifically for special-needs individuals! Christmas lights, rides, petting zoo, cookies, hot chocolate, and pictures with Santa are among the many amazing opportunities that families can take advantage of. You’re in for a day of fun and unending smiles at Morgan’s Wonderland!