Looking for sensory-friendly holiday fun in Raleigh, Triangle? Here are 6 events, venues to consider

As I've been updating Go Ask Mom's annual posts on Christmas events, I've been thrilled to see more activities designed for those with sensory challenges and other special needs. From special hours to visit Santa to new resources at every game and show at the PNC Arena, there are a lot more options for families with kids with special needs.

"There are definitely more things happening that are phrased as sensory friendly, not only in the Triangle area, but across the state," said David Laxton, communications director for the Autism Society of North Carolina. What's more, the events often include staff and volunteers, who have been trained to recognized issues and concerns for those with special needs, and are filled with parents and others who understand the challenges they face.

"That is a good thing and that's a change from what it used to be in the past," he said. "Parents aren't just on their own when they are going to these performances. That makes all the difference in the world."

​Still, Laxton said, parents do need to be mindful of exactly how much their kids can tolerate. "Sensory friendly doesn't necessarily means it's completely friendly to that child," he said. "Parents know their children best. ... Even a sensory friendly visit with Santa at a scheduled time could still go wrong."

"Kids with autism have challenges sometimes with processing information and understanding sequences," Laxton said. "The unpredictability of life and not understanding what's happening next can create anxiety and behavioral challenges for them. The more predictable you can make life, the less challenges you have with behavior and you can help them decrease their anxiety."

If you're looking for sensory-friendly holiday events, here are six venues and events to consider:

I'll add that the Museum of Life and Science in Durham also offered two sensory-friendly rides on its Santa Train, but those two events quickly sold out. The Durham museum hopes to add more departure times next year.