Festive Fayre: How we're creating a Christmas celebration for every family
Saturday 28th November, 11am–3pm, Northorpe Barn, Free entry
For many people, Christmas is an exciting time of year. But for others, it can bring extra challenges, particularly for neurodivergent children and young people.
The lights, music, crowds and changes to familiar routines can all make this time of year feel overwhelming. And while Christmas events are often full of the things that make the season special, those same things can sometimes make it difficult for families to enjoy them.
As specialists in supporting neurodivergent children and young people, we're always thinking about what we can do to make places and experiences more accessible, welcoming and comfortable.
That's why, when we planned this year's Festive Fayre, we wanted to think beyond the stalls, games and Christmas activities and remember that what makes a wonderful day for one child might feel very different for another.
Here's how we've made sure you can feel confident about coming along, knowing that we've thought about your needs too.
A little preparation can make a big difference
One of the most helpful things we can do is make sure families know what to expect before they arrive.
For some neurodivergent children and young people, not knowing what's going to happen, where things will be or how busy a place might feel can add to the anxiety of visiting somewhere new.
Having information beforehand gives families the chance to talk things through, prepare their young person and decide what might work best for them.
We've put together a Festive Fayre guide to help with exactly that. It explains what you'll find on the day, what we've done to make the event more comfortable and where you can go if you need a little time out.
You can download your free copy here:
Visiting Santa
Santa's grotto will be outside the main fair, rather than inside the busy Barn.
This means that if your child finds crowded indoor spaces difficult, they can still enjoy the excitement of meeting Santa without having to navigate the busiest part of the event first.
There's no single right way to meet Santa, either. Whether your child wants to chat, take a photo, bring someone along or simply say hello in their own way, we'll do our best to make it a positive experience.
Storytelling without the pressure
We'll be holding storytelling sessions, including a sensory reading at 2pm, where numbers will be limited to create a more comfortable experience.
We know that sitting still, listening or joining in with a group activity can be difficult for some children.
Please be assured that there's no expectation for children to sit quietly, join in or take part in a particular way. They can enjoy the story in whatever way feels right for them, and it's absolutely fine to come and go if they need to.
A little less noise and sensory overload
We've been mindful of the sensory environment throughout our planning.
We'll keep the music at a low volume and there won't be any flickering lights.
We know that small adjustments like these can make a big difference, helping to create an atmosphere that families can enjoy without adding unnecessary sensory demands is key to that.
Somewhere to take a break
If things become a little too much, our wonderful Dairy will be transformed into a quiet area.
It's somewhere your young person can take a break, have a little space and gather themselves away from the activity of the fair.
It also gives parents and carers a chance to pause, take stock and decide whether they'd like to head back into the event or whether it might be time to call it a day.
There's no pressure either way. We want families to feel comfortable making the decision that's right for them.
We're here if you need us
We want every family who visits us to feel welcome and supported.
Our team will be wearing Northorpe T-shirts, so you'll know who to look out for if you have a question or need a hand.
We'll also have two members of staff specifically available to support neurodivergent children and young people throughout the day. Please don't hesitate to approach them if there's anything we can do to help.
We know that no two children are the same, and we won't always know what someone needs unless we take the time to listen. If you have any questions or a specific request, please email info@northorpehall.co.uk and we'll do what we can to help.
We hope that by sharing this information in advance and making a few thoughtful adjustments, we can give more families the confidence to join us and enjoy a little Christmas magic together.
While we have you
We just wanted to say that we're still collecting donations for our bottle, chocolate and dog treat tombolas.
If you'd like to contribute, donations can be dropped off at Northorpe Hall reception until Monday 23rd November.
You can also order items through our Amazon Wishlist: https://amzn.eu/0iSl0GCD
All money raised from the activities at our event will go towards the work we do with children, young people and their families in West Yorkshire - so not only is it a brilliant day, it's a chance to support a fantastic local cause!
Thank you to everyone who is helping us make this year's Festive Fayre possible. We can't wait to welcome you!
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