Planning a festive day out in the UK for a child with diverse needs requires a little bit of detective work!
As parents we want to find a setting where our little ones (with learning disabilities, sensory needs, physical disabilities, sight or hearing impairments) are genuinely welcomed.
Remember, you are the expert on your child.
The fun finder checklist
Use this checklist to ask venues the right questions and
advocate
An advocate is a person who can help you have your say. An advocate can speak up for you if you find it hard.
for a magical, joyful time!
Things to ask the venue about
Pacing and flow
- Is this a short, rushed visit, or an all-day playful session where we can take our time and regulate if needed?
Personal touches
- Can you provide Santa or the elves with information about my child’s special interests beforehand (for example, specific sensory toys, or a particular TV character)?
This simple touch will help the child feel seen, understood and relaxed.
- Does Santa give a gift as standard?
It’s important to know if you need to manage expectations or bring your own wrapped gift to avoid disappointment.
Staff and communication
- Are the staff/elves trained in diverse needs (for example, basic BSL, or using picture cards), so my child can communicate effectively?
Sensory and physical access
- For sensory seekers: Are the lights and music on, but with fewer people around?
- For sensory avoiders: Would you be able to dim the lights and lower the volume specifically for this session?
- Is the path wide and step-free for wheelchairs or our specialist buggies?
- Are assistance dogs welcome in all areas?
Preparation and safety
- Can you provide a visual story or an online guide so we can prepare ahead for the adventure?
- Do you have a proper
Changing Places toilet
In a Changing Places toilet, there is a toilet, a changing bench, a hoist and room for carers to help someone.
on site with a hoist and bench?
- What are the emergency evacuation procedures for wheelchair users or those who cannot use stairs?
Don’t forget to wrap your child up warm in a ski or snow suit if possible if they struggle to regulate their body temperature for light displays and outdoor events.
The attitude check
The best indicator of inclusion is attitude. When you email or telephone ahead, the patience and willingness of the staff to make reasonable adjustments tell you how truly inclusive a place is.
How to find these sessions
- Look for specific long duration or dedicated all day SEN events or varied time slots throughout the day as the gold standard, not just a SEN session at an 8am slot that the venue usually struggles to fill.
- Lapland UK: have an all day SEN event but it’s booked up months in advance.
- The Together Space: This is an
organisation
An organisation are a group of people who work together.
that often hosts fully inclusive, relaxed events throughout the year including Christmas where both disabled and non-disabled children can play together.
- Large
organisations
Organisations are groups like companies and businesses.
are more likely to offer sessions, such as museums.
- Check out your local light switching on events as these are usually free and in bigger spaces.
- Ask companies directly if they are open to arranging SEN events or if your older child is allowed to go to one aimed at younger children.
About the author
Jane a mum of a child with a
learning disability
A learning disability is to do with the way someone's brain works. It makes it harder for someone to learn, understand or do things.
who is ‘trying to make London more
accessible
Accessible means something is easy for people to use or join in with. For example: Accessible writing means the writing is easy to read and understand.
, 1 review at a time.’
By Mencap