6 Top Tips to Help Your Autistic Child Take Photos with Santa
It’s that time of year again… Santa photo season is here!
For many families, taking photos with Santa is a magical tradition. However, for parents of autistic children, it can feel daunting. Bright lights, crowded spaces, unfamiliar people, and sensory overload can make the experience feel very overwhelming. For some parents, it’s a tough reminder of events and traditions they may need to let go of because the challenge feels insurmountable.
But here’s the good news: with a little preparation and flexibility, you can make Santa photos an enjoyable experience for your child. In this week’s blog, I’m sharing six practical tips to help your autistic child take photos with Santa while keeping things as stress-free as possible.
- Prepare Your Child Ahead of Time
Preparation is key to reducing anxiety. Talk to your child about what to expect using simple and clear language. Visual aids like social stories or videos of other children meeting Santa can help your child feel more familiar with the experience. Describe the environment, the lights, the sounds, and what Santa might say. If possible, show them a photo of the specific Santa they’ll be meeting. An alternative is to look up on YouTube of other autistic kids, taking their Santa phots.
Pro Tip: Role-play the experience at home. Pretend to be Santa, take turns sitting in a “Santa chair,” and snap a few practice photos to help your child feel confident.
- Choose a Sensory-Friendly Event
Many shopping centres and community groups now offer sensory-friendly Santa sessions designed with autistic children in mind. These events often feature dimmer lights, reduced noise, and fewer crowds, creating a calmer and more welcoming environment.
Pro Tip: Book your session early in the day when your child is more refreshed or opt for a time when the shopping centre is less crowded.
- Bring Comfort Items
A Favourite comfort item can help your child self-regulate in an unfamiliar environment. Whether it’s a beloved toy, sensory fidget, or noise-cancelling headphones, having something familiar can make a big difference.
Pro Tip: If your child feels more comfortable sitting beside Santa or standing nearby while holding their comfort item, go with it. A relaxed and happy child makes for a memorable photo!
- Dress for Comfort
While it’s tempting to dress your child in festive or formal attire, comfort should come first. Scratchy fabrics, tight clothing, or unfamiliar outfits can add to their discomfort. Choose soft, familiar clothes your child loves.
Pro Tip: If festive clothing is non-negotiable, let them wear it around the house a few times before the event so they can get used to it.
- Be Flexible and Patient
Things might not go as planned, and that’s perfectly okay. Your child might need extra time, require breaks, or even decide they don’t want to take a photo at all. Follow their lead and respect their boundaries.
Pro Tip: Some of the best holiday memories come from candid moments. A photo of your child giving Santa a high-five or simply waving from a distance can be just as special as a posed shot.
- Book a Quiet Session Time
If making your child’s Santa photo experience stress-free means taking them out of school for an hour or two, it’s worth it. Booking during school hours often means fewer people at the shopping centre, creating a calmer atmosphere. Choose a time that works best for your child’s energy levels—either a morning session when they’re refreshed or an afternoon session before school finishes.
Pro Tip: Plan the session around your child’s needs to set them up for success.
Bonus Tip: Bring Santa to Your Home
If going to a public Santa photo location feels too overwhelming despite your best efforts, don’t stress. Ask a family member, neighbour, or friend to dress up as Santa and take photos in the comfort of your home. I’ve done this before, and the results were just as magical as any shopping centre photo!
Final Thoughts
Taking a photo with Santa doesn’t have to be a source of stress. With preparation, sensory-friendly options, and a little creativity, you can create a holiday tradition that feels comfortable and enjoyable for your child.
Remember, the goal isn’t the perfect photo—it’s about creating a moment where your child feels seen, understood, and celebrated for who they are.
Have you tried any of these tips? Share your experience in the comments below—I’d love to hear your story!
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