The holidays are busy, bright, and loud—wonderful for some, overwhelming for others. If you’re hosting in Metro Atlanta and want your home or venue to feel welcoming for neurodivergent guests—especially children on the spectrum and folks with sensory processing disorders—a few thoughtful tweaks can transform the experience. Below is a therapist-approved guide to creating a truly sensory friendly environment during the season’s special events, from neighborhood parties to family dinners and community outings.
Start with the Sensory Basics
1) Light & sound:
- Lower harsh lighting; use lamps or warm bulbs.
- Keep background music low and steady.
- Offer noise cancelling headphones at the door for anyone who needs them.
2) Predictability:
- Share a brief schedule in advance (arrival, food, activities, quiet time).
- Create a simple social story with photos of your space so guests know what to expect (front door, dining area, designated quiet space).
3) Space planning:
- Set up quiet zones—a small quiet area with soft seating, low light, fidgets, and books.
- Post a sign so kids know it’s okay to take a break.
Build “Sensory Bags” Guests Can Grab
Place labeled sensory bags in a basket near the entry or designated quiet room. Include:
- Chewelry or safe chew tubes, stress balls, and fidgets
- Sunglasses or caps for bright rooms
- Earplugs and child-sized noise cancelling headphones
- A laminated “need-a-break” card kids can hand an adult
These portable supports help families with children navigate transitions without leaving the party.
Pace the Party with Sensory-Friendly Activities
Offer a mix of movement and calmer options so guests can self-select:
- Sensory friendly activities like playdough, kinetic sand trays, sticker stations, or a simple craft
- A short outdoor scavenger hunt (if weather allows) to reset energy
- A “game library” with clear rules and visual timers for turn-taking
Keep any group activity brief, opt-in, and flexible participation is never required.
Food & Seating That Lower Stress
- Label common allergens and textures (“crunchy,” “soft,” “plain”).
- Provide a “safe foods” plate (plain pasta, fruit, simple proteins).
- Allow flexible seating: floor cushions, a small side table, or a seat by the quiet area for kids who need space.
Out & About in Metro Atlanta: Choose Sensory-Smart Options
Many local venues offer sensory friendly programming throughout the year:
- Sensory friendly film screenings at area theaters often feature limited admission and sound adjustments and house lights partially up.
- The Children’s Museum frequently hosts sensory friendly events with reduced crowds and visual support.
- Look for sensory friendly performances at theaters and libraries, where staff are trained, lights and volume are modified, and movement breaks are welcomed.
When you RSVP, ask about a sensory friendly environment, designated quiet spaces, and availability of sensory bags, most venues are happy to help.
Hosting “Big” Family Gatherings? Set Gentle Boundaries
Holiday reunions can feel overwhelming, even with the best intentions. Before guests arrive, send a quick message:
“We’re creating a sensory-friendly holiday. We’ll keep music low, have quiet zones, and pause group games every 20 minutes. Please ask before hugging kiddos and feel free to use the quiet area.”
This protects kids’ autonomy and helps family members support regulation rather than rush it.
If Plans Include Worship or Community Events
Bring a small sensory bag, identify exits and quiet areas ahead of time, and confirm whether the venue can offer sensory friendly seating (aisle spots, faster exits, low-stimulation corners). Consider a pre-visit to reduce uncertainty—snap photos for a personal social story.
Quick Troubleshooting Guide
- “My child is melting down.” Step to a designated quiet space, offer water, deep-pressure squeezes (if your child likes them), and a favorite fidget.
- “They won’t join group activities.” That’s okay. Provide parallel play options; connection can look like building next to others, not always with them.
- “Relatives don’t understand.” Keep it simple: “We’re using sensory supports so everyone can enjoy the day.”
A Kinder Measure of Success
A successful gathering isn’t the fullest schedule—it’s the most regulated guests. If your neurodivergent loved one smiles once, tries one game, or stays five minutes longer than last year, that’s a win. When we design with nervous systems in mind, everyone benefits.
We’re Here to Help in Metro Atlanta
At Focus Forward Counseling & Consulting, we support neurodivergent kids, teens, and adults—and their families—in Alpharetta, Cumming, and across metro Atlanta. If you’d like coaching on creating a sensory friendly environment, navigating sensory processing disorders, or planning sensory friendly events, our therapists can help you build a plan that fits your traditions.
This season may your gatherings be calmer, kinder, and truly inclusive made for every brain in the room.