Here’s where to find sensory-friendly photos with Santa in NoVA

Locations across the region are offering designated times for children who may need accommodations for sensory, physical or other developmental needs.

By Jennifer Zeleski • Posted November 15, 2019 at 10:22 a.m.

Sensory-friendly opportunities are starting to pop up more and more across Northern Virginia, and getting the chance to snap a photo with Santa (and share that coveted wish list) is no exception.

For children who might be on the autism spectrum, have a sensory processing disorder, have mobility challenges or have trouble coping with crowds, loud noises, bright flashes and more, these opportunities offer a chance to enjoy a “mainstream” event, says Whitney Ellenbee, in her Washington Post column “My son has autism. He deserves separate sensory-friendly opportunities.” She is the author of Autism Uncensored: Pulling Back the Curtain.

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Below, find eight locations offering sensory-friendly photo sessions with Santa for the 2019 holiday season. Each location will offer accommodations to children with sensory, physical or other developmental needs, and the chance for every child to share what they hope to find under the Christmas tree this year. Plus, some locations are offering more than just photo sessions.

Caring Santa
Dec. 1, 9-10:30 a.m.
Potomac Mills: 2700 Potomac Mills Circle, Suite 307, Woodbridge; free, reservations recommended

Sensory Santa
Nov. 16, 7:30-9:30 a.m.
Fair Oaks Mall: 11750 Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax; $35-$50

Kindness Sensory Santa
Nov. 17, 8:30-10:30 a.m.
Spotsylvania Towne Centre: 137 Spotsylvania Mall Drive, Fredericksburg; free

Sensory-Friendly Santa
Dec. 1, 9-10:30 a.m.
Dulles Town Center, Center Court: 21100 Dulles Town Circle, Sterling; $29.99, registration required

Caring Santa
Dec. 1, 9-11 a.m.
Fashion Centre at Pentagon City: 1100 S. Hayes St., Arlington; free

Santa Cares Tysons Corner
Dec. 1, 10 a.m. to noon
Tysons Corner Center: 1961 Chain Bridge Road, McLean; free