Creating Accessible and Welcoming Holidays for Everyone

The holiday season can bring joy, connection, and community spirit. It can also feel busy, loud, and overwhelming, especially for people who have sensory needs or who communicate in different ways. When we plan with accessibility in mind, we create celebrations where every person can participate in a way that feels comfortable and meaningful for them.

Supporting different communication needs

People communicate in many ways. Some people communicate with speech, while others use AAC tools such as communication boards, picture cards, or speech generating devices. These tools support people to express themselves and share what matters to them.

During holiday events, accessible communication helps every person feel included.

You can support people with different communication needs by:

• Offering communication boards or AAC friendly resources at stalls and information points
• Giving each person the time they need to communicate
• Asking for consent before stepping in to support someone
• Providing Easy Read information that is clear and straightforward

Every person has the right to be heard and understood in the way that works best for them.

Supporting sensory needs

Holiday celebrations often involve bright lights, music, crowds, and strong smells. For some people, these experiences can be uncomfortable or overwhelming. Sensory friendly options help people stay involved in the ways that feel right for them.

Helpful ideas include:

• A quiet area where people can rest if they need a break
• Sensory kits, ear defenders, or soft lighting where possible
• Clear and easy pathways for people who use mobility supports
• Space for people to step away and return in their own time
• Letting people know ahead of time if an event will include loud sounds or flashing lights

Recognising sensory needs is a simple way to support the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of all community members.

Choosing kindness

Kindness makes the biggest difference during the holiday season. Every person experiences this time of year differently. Some feel excited, some feel anxious, and some may find social gatherings challenging. A patient and respectful approach helps people feel valued.

Kindness can look like:

• Respecting each person’s pace and comfort level
• Asking before offering assistance
• Speaking with people in a way that honours their dignity
• Encouraging children to understand and celebrate differences
• Remembering that all behaviour is a form of communication

When we lead with compassion, we build stronger and more inclusive communities.

A shared commitment to inclusion

Accessible holiday events do not happen by accident. They happen when people, families, organisations, and communities work together with intention. When every person feels welcome, the holiday season becomes more meaningful for all of us.

Advocacy WA is here to support anyone who would like to learn more about accessibility, communication supports, and creating inclusive spaces. Together, we can create a holiday season filled with connection, respect, and belonging.

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