Making the Summer holiday accessible for all

While Christmas brings a variety of festive activities, from food to shopping and gift-giving, it can also be a challenging and stressful time for people with disability. To help, we’ve compiled some ideas to make your celebrations more accessible.

Shopping during quiet hours

What does this mean? Some major shopping centres are making a difference by accommodating a low-sensory shopping experience. This means they will reduce the music volume, dim lights and limit the number of announcements during an allocated time. By doing so, quiet hours intend to minimise anxiety and sensory stress for customers with specific needs by creating a calmer, less stimulating environment.

Several shopping centres and major retailers offer a quiet hour, with some even offering sensory-friendly maps. Be sure to check your local shopping centre for details and times.

• Westfield Carousel: Every Tuesday between 10:30am – 11:30am
• Coles
• Woolworths

Auslan and Sensitive Santa is coming to town

Some of Perth’s biggest shopping centres host a series of Auslan and Sensitive Santa sessions. Auslan sessions give Deaf and hard of hearing children the opportunity to share their Christmas wishes directly with Santa. While Sensitive Santa sessions provide a calm, sensory-friendly Santa experience in a quiet environment before stores open.

These sessions are often in high demand, with time slots filling up quickly. Be sure to catch Santa this year for your first or annual family photo!

Sensitive and Auslan Santa can be seen at:

• Westfield Innaloo, Whitford City, Carousel, Booragoon
• Lakeside Joondalup
• Cockburn Gateways
• Karrinyup Shopping Centre
• Mandurah Forum
• Midland Gate
• Galleria Shopping Centre

To find a Santa experience at other shopping centres in your local area, visit Santa’s VIPs.

Inclusive family gatherings

Get everyone involved: There are lots of ways to make the day more inclusive at your Christmas lunch or dinner. Give small roles based on what each person enjoys. Maybe someone loves taking photos, dressing up as Santa, or handing out gifts. It’s an easy way to ensure everyone feels involved and part of the celebration!

Games and activities: Think about games and activities the whole family can enjoy together. Here are some fun and accessible ideas.

1. Charades: A friendly game where players act out Christmas words or phrases—lots of laughs guaranteed!
2. Christmas trivia: Create a quiz with questions about anything you like with a range of topics so everyone can have a chance to shine!
3. Scavenger hunt: Set up a scavenger hunt around the house or yard. Make sure everyone is able to reach and participate!
4. Craft station: Let everyone get creative by making their own decorations. You can ask for suggestions from everyone!

Always ask!

Just like we always ask for dietary requirements, it’s essential to include accessibility needs as well. Take the time to ask your guests what they might need—do they require a quiet room or an accessible venue?

Everyone has different access needs, so instead of assuming, a simple phone call or text message can help you understand how to make your gathering more inclusive. Most people will appreciate your thoughtfulness in reaching out.

Pre-planning will go a long way to ensure your event is accessible, inclusive, and fun for everyone. Try out one of these tips this season to make sure all guests can enjoy themselves, regardless of their abilities.