Navigating A Santa Visit With A Child On The Autistic Spectrum
At Santas Downunder, we cherish the tradition of meeting Santa Claus and are committed to making it magical for every child. Our Santa on the Beach sessions prioritise inclusivity, ensuring that every child feels comfortable and celebrated.
In this guide, we’ll share essential tips for preparing for your unforgettable Santa photography session for children on the autism spectrum.
Introduce Santa in a Child-Friendly Way
Begin by introducing the concept of Santa to your child, keeping explanations simple and tailored to their level of understanding. Emphasise that Santa is a kind person who brings presents to children, making them feel special during the holiday season.
Visual Aids and Social Stories
Use visual aids such as photos of Santa with other children or videos of Santa interactions to familiarise your child with the experience.
Create social stories that include pictures of your child meeting Santa and read them together to build anticipation.
Practise at Home
Prepare your child for the Santa session by practising essential skills like waiting in line and answering questions such as “What is your name?” and “What do you want for Christmas?”
If your child has sensory sensitivities, consider using sensory tools or props to simulate the experience at home.
Bring Comfort Items
On the day of your Santa session, bring along your child’s comfort items or favourite toys to help them feel at ease during the shoot.
Reinforcements
Have small rewards ready to motivate positive behaviour during the session. These can include snacks, a favourite toy, or a special treat.
Privacy and Consent
Rest assured that we prioritise your child’s privacy and security during the session. Any photos shared on our website or social media will only be done with your explicit consent.
Share Your Child’s Needs
If your child has specific requirements or sensitivities, don’t hesitate to communicate them with our team before the session. We’re here to make the experience enjoyable for your child.
We trust that this guide has offered valuable insights and tips to prepare your child for their Santa on the Beach photography session. Our team is here to support you in creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your visit further, please feel free to reach out to us via our contact page or email us direct at: [email protected]. We’re always here to support you.
Meet the lens behind the love
Hi, my name is Sonja and I have been a business owner and photographer since 2013. I have never been great with words, which is why my husband is actually writing this for me, but have always found a form of communication and expression through photography. Santas Downunder has always been and always be at the centre of that. Capturing joy and love of families, couples and friends. And enabling them to share those beautiful moment near and those afar.
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