North East Offers Autism-Friendly Christmas Events for Families

Families in the North East can look forward to a range of autism-friendly Christmas events designed to create inclusive experiences during the festive season. These events aim to accommodate children with autism and similar conditions, allowing them to enjoy holiday traditions without the overwhelming atmosphere often associated with Christmas festivities.

According to the North East Autism Society, several venues have organized special sessions to ensure that families can participate comfortably. These events include quieter Santa grottos and relaxed pantomime performances, where adjustments such as modified lighting and sound levels create a more welcoming environment.

Rebecca Weatherstone, a representative from the North East Autism Society, emphasized the importance of inclusivity during the festive period. “The festive season should be a time when every family feels welcomed, valued, and able to enjoy the magic of Christmas together,” she stated. This sentiment resonates with many families who appreciate events that foster understanding and acceptance.

Autism-Friendly Events Across the Region

The North East is offering various autism-friendly events, ranging from Santa visits to pantomime shows, tailored to meet the needs of children with autism. These events, which may also be referred to as relaxed or SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) sessions, provide smaller group sizes, minimized queues, and opportunities for families to move freely.

For those interested in meeting Santa, the following grottos offer quieter experiences:

– **Discovery Museum, Newcastle**: A Canny Christmas Grotto on **December 7** with 30-minute slots available from **14:00 to 17:30**. The cost is **£18.99** per person, and one carer can join for free.
– **Lanchester Garden Centre, County Durham**: Santa’s Adapted Enchanted Garden Grotto on **December 5** from **11:00 to 14:30**, costing **£17.95** per child, which includes free entry for two adults.
– **Dobbies Garden Centre, Birtley**: Quiet Grotto on **December 5** from **14:30 to 17:30**, with 10-minute slots priced at **£14** per child.
– **Metrocentre, Gateshead**: Santa’s Elf Academy SEND sessions on **November 29**, **December 5**, and **December 11**, with staggered 30-minute slots available at **£10** for children and **£5** for adults.

The North East also boasts several relaxed pantomime performances, allowing families to enjoy the festive spirit without the usual pressures of theatre etiquette. For instance,

– **Tyne Theatre, Newcastle** will host *Cinderella* on **January 3** at **11:00**, with tickets ranging from **£34.50 to £40.50**.
– **Theatre Royal, Newcastle** will present *Aladdin* on **December 7** at **12:00**, with tickets starting from **£37**.

In addition to the festive shows, a variety of other events are designed with sensory adjustments to enhance comfort for visitors:

– **Hancock Museum, Newcastle**: The Great Dinosaur Show from **December 20-23** and **27-31** at **15:00**, tickets priced at **£12.99**.
– **Gosforth Civic Theatre, Newcastle**: Storytime with Santa on **December 12** and **20**, costing **£15** per child.

Accessible Shopping Options

Beyond entertainment, local shopping centers are making strides to ensure inclusivity throughout the holiday shopping season. Major retailers in the North East have designated quieter hours where noise levels are reduced, making for a more comfortable shopping experience.

For example, at Eldon Square in Newcastle, quieter shopping hours are available every Tuesday and Saturday from **10:00 to 11:00** and **09:00 to 10:00**, with sensory backpacks offered for a **£20** refundable deposit. Similarly, the Metrocentre in Gateshead provides quiet hours on Tuesdays and Saturdays from **16:00 to 18:00**.

Families are encouraged to book in advance for the events as they may have limited availability and could sell out quickly. For more details on the North East Autism Society and its ongoing support for individuals with autism, visit their official website or social media pages.

These autism-friendly initiatives across the North East not only offer festive cheer but also foster community engagement and understanding, making it possible for families to share in the joy of the holiday season.