The holiday season can be magical, but for children with autism or sensory processing challenges, it can also feel overwhelming. Crowded events, loud music, bright lights, and unpredictable schedules often cause discomfort or anxiety. Fortunately, sensory-friendly holiday experiences provide a way for families to celebrate without the stress. In Passaic and Western Bergen Counties, several local organizations offer inclusive activities, helping children with autism enjoy the season in a comfortable environment. At BrightStar Care of Passaic and Western Bergen Counties, we are committed to supporting families by promoting these accessible events and ensuring that every child can experience the joy of the holidays in a way that suits their needs.
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Tips for Creating Sensory-Friendly Holiday Experiences
1. Plan Ahead and Set Expectations
Children with autism often thrive on predictability. Preparing your child for events by explaining what to expect—through visual schedules or social stories—can reduce anxiety.
- Use countdown calendars to anticipate holiday events.
- Let your child practice with holiday decorations ahead of time to get familiar with them.
2. Create a Quiet Space for Breaks
Whether at home or during outings, ensure there’s a designated quiet space where your child can retreat if things become overstimulating. Headphones or a weighted blanket can also help your child self-regulate.
3. Adjust Sensory Experiences at Home
Decorating in phases, using subtle lights, and limiting loud music can make the home environment more comfortable for children with sensory sensitivities. Involve your child in choosing holiday décor to make the experience enjoyable and familiar.
Local Sensory-Friendly Events and Activities
1. Sensory-Friendly Santa at Willowbrook Mall
Willowbrook Mall, located just outside Passaic, hosts a quiet Santa event for children with sensory sensitivities. The event offers reduced noise levels, dimmed lights, and no waiting lines, creating a stress-free environment to meet Santa.
2. Sensory-Friendly Movie Screenings at AMC Clifton Commons
AMC theaters in Clifton offer Sensory Friendly Films on select weekends. These screenings are designed for children with autism, with dimmed lights, lower volume, and the freedom for kids to move around.
3. Children’s Museum of Manhattan (Travel Event)
Though located just across the river, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan offers holiday-themed, sensory-friendly mornings where children can explore without the usual crowds. While a bit of a trip, it’s a popular destination for families seeking autism-friendly experiences.
4. Holiday Crafts at Paterson Library
Several branches of the Paterson Public Library offer sensory-friendly craft sessions during the holidays. These sessions are designed to be hands-on and low-pressure, with soft music and plenty of breaks to accommodate children’s needs.
5. Local Parks and Outdoor Sensory Spaces
If the weather permits, consider visiting Garret Mountain Reservation or Van Saun Park during off-peak hours for a low-key outdoor holiday walk. These parks are great for quiet exploration, giving children the opportunity to enjoy seasonal changes without the sensory overload of crowded indoor events.
How Families Can Adapt the Holidays at Home
Creating personalized holiday traditions at home helps make the season enjoyable for children with autism. Here are a few ideas:
- Host a small holiday party with just a few family members or friends in a controlled environment.
- Use sensory-friendly alternatives like soft LED candles instead of blinking holiday lights.
- Bake gluten-free or allergen-free holiday treats together, giving your child a sense of control and involvement.
- Introduce holiday music slowly—start with familiar, calming tunes instead of loud, energetic ones.
BrightStar Care’s Support for Families
At BrightStar Care of Passaic and Western Bergen Counties, we understand that every child’s needs are unique, especially during busy seasons. Our caregivers offer specialized pediatric care to help families manage the holidays with ease. We can assist with transportation to sensory-friendly events, provide respite care, or help children participate in activities at home by creating structured, low-stress routines.
This holiday season, let BrightStar Care help your family find the perfect balance between fun and comfort. With the right planning, resources, and support, every child can feel the joy of the season. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist your family during the holidays and beyond.
BrightStar Care® is Here to Help
At BrightStar Care® of Passaic and Western Bergen Counties, we offer a wide range of home care and medical staffing services that enrich the quality of life for those who need care from the comfort of their home. We strive to provide the full continuum of care to our community while keeping our focus on offering a higher standard of care. Offering unparalleled support for our local healthcare system while providing a variety of high-quality, compassionate care, we work to give our clients the best lives possible while also strengthening the broader community. Contact us through our website or call 973.321.7413, so that we can help you find the right support to fit your unique needs.