Caring Santas in Indy: 6 Sensory-Friendly Santa Visit Experiences

As Christmas nears, many kids will be planning their visits to the big guy in red. For kids with autism or other behavioral or intellectual disorders, the annual visit and photo with Santa can be a challenging endeavor. Fortunately, more and more caring Santas and sensory-friendly Santa visit experiences are popping up to make it a little easier to include all children in this beloved tradition and the Indianapolis area has several opportunities.

There are also other great sensory-friendly and special needs holiday events, from Nutcracker performances to the classic A Christmas Carol at the IRT.

Where to See Sensory-Friendly & Caring Santas in Indy

Sensory Santa at Bierman Autism Centers

December 5, 2024, 5-7 pm

Bierman Autism Centers of Westfield is hosting a FREE special needs community event

designed to provide a calm and sensory-friendly experience for children with autism. Families can meet and take photos with Santa and participate in cookie decorating and winter-themed games and fun. The holiday celebration is free, but you must RSVP to secure your spot.

Smiley Indoor Indoor Playground & Arcade

December 7, 2024, 9-11 am

Santa is coming to Smiley Indianaplis and he is bringing gifts! Visit Smiley on Saturday, December 7 for Sensory-Friendly hours from 9-11 am to enjoy Santa and the adventure park with low music and dimmed lights. From the massive ball pit to the sensory room and manipulatives like legos and blocks, children of all abilities are welcome to and encouraged to run their fingers through the sand and throw balls in the ball in the air. Each child will receive a free sensory toy from Santa. You can RSVP here.

Greenwood Park Mall

December 8, 2024, 9-10:30 am

In select Simon malls across the country, Caring Santa will host a private visit with families outside regular mall hours for special needs kids. Participating malls create a sensory-friendly environment by dimming the lights and turning off music, elevators, and TVs. And, in an effort to create a more positive environment, participating Caring Santas have received additional training to work with special needs kids. These events are free, but photo packages will be available for purchase. Click here for a complete list and to find a Caring Santa near you. Guests must register in advance.

University Park Mall – Mishawaka

December 8, 2024, 9-10:30 am

In select Simon malls across the country, Caring Santa will host a private visit with families outside regular mall hours for special needs kids. Participating malls create a sensory-friendly environment by dimming the lights and turning off music, elevators, and TVs. And, in an effort to create a more positive environment, participating Caring Santas have received additional training to work with special needs kids. These events are free, but photo packages will be available for purchase. Click here for a complete list and to find a Caring Santa near you. Guests must register in advance.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

December 10, 2024, 4-7 pm

The Children’s Museum periodically offers Museum My Way events, designed specifically to provide a more calm, comfortable environment for visitors with disabilities or sensory sensitivities. Santa visits will be available during the December event, where attendees will also have the opportunity to play in the WinterFaire, All Aboard!, Fireworks of Glass, and American POP exhibits. Purchase your tickets in advance.

Indiana State Museum

December 16, 2024, 3-5 pm

Experience the magic of the holidays in a sensory-friendly environment for families with children and adults with autism, or individuals with other sensory or developmental needs. During this time, the Indiana State Museum’s Celebration Crossing will be made more welcoming by reducing overhead music, dimming lights, and providing sensory-based activities throughout the experience. The Autism Society of Indiana will be present to assist families as needed.

Tips for Creating a Positive Santa Experience:

If you can’t make it to visit one of the Caring Santas, there are still lots of opportunities for your child to visit with the big guy. Below are a few tips that might make it a little easier.

1. Preparation is key in all things special needs. Before your Santa visit, create a picture book, visual schedule, or social story to help your child get familiar with what to expect.
2. Communicate your needs. Calling the venue in advance will help with your preparations and determine if it will be a good fit for your family. Plus, it lets them know what special needs families need. Questions to ask: Are there quiet hours offered? If not, when is the least busy time to visit? Does the Santa have experience with special needs children? Will it be OK if my child stands next to Santa rather than sitting on his lap? Is the space wheelchair friendly? Also, when you arrive, don’t hesitate to let the staff know your needs.
3. Bring some comfort items and/or props along. My son is very high energy and when he was a toddler, we knew there was no way he’d sit for a photo with Santa. So I had the idea to bring a few cookies along. Everybody knows Santa loves cookies, and it definitely captivated my son’s attention. It also made for a great photo. Older kids might want to bring along a handwritten list or even a small gift for Santa. Engage them by letting them choose what to bring. Giving them purpose and something to focus on can significantly ease stress.
4. Waiting in line can be the hardest part, especially for those who have mobility issues. Bring along another adult who can hang out with your child while you navigate the line.
5. If it still sounds like visiting Santa might be too overwhelming, there are lots of alternatives to seeing him in person. We have some great resources for arranging a special personalized call or video from Santa.

Looking for sensory-friendly experiences at home? Check out our Holiday-Themed Sensory Experiences To Do At Home article. There are five amazing ideas that children with autism will love. To be honest, all kids love getting their hands into things and feeling different sensations so these activities would be great for all kids and even adults! Try out these amazing crafts and play ideas this holiday season!

Discover more places to visit Santa in Indy this season! 

Find All Holiday Events in Indy here.  

Do you have a child with autism or who requires sensory-friendly experiences? Have you ever visited with a caring Santa before? Share your comments and pictures of your experience with a sensory-friendly or caring Santa with us below or tag us on social media using #PLAYindy. Follow Indy with Kids on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest for all of the best ideas and things to do with kids in Indy!