Children who use ASL can meet and grab a family photo with Deaf Santa Charles, one of the country’s few deaf Santas, today between noon and 8 p.m. at Gaylord National Resort.
Photos with Santa are a key part of the Christmas experience—one that usually leaves children who use American Sign Language (ASL) left out.
With this event on Dec. 13, children who are deaf, hard of hearing or use ASL for other reasons, such as to aid in communication for autism, apraxia of speech, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome, can experience the holiday magic on their terms.
The kids will be able to meet Santa Charles and his wife, Mrs. Claus, who is also deaf. “A graduate of the International University of Santa Claus, Santa Charles says he feels a greater connection to guests who visit with him because he has a full understanding of the deaf experience,” according to a Gaylord National news release.
The photo packages range from $40 to $99, with the Santa Photo Package being $75. That package includes three 6×8 photos, four wallet-sized photos, a frame, a photo ornament and digitals.
Visiting the Gaylord on Dec. 13 also allows families to access tickets for ICE! at 40% off using the code Santa23. To make a reservation for photos with Santa Charles and Mrs. Claus, click HERE.
The resort also has other activities for children with disabilities this season, such as sensory-sensitive times during its Christmas at Gaylord National celebration.
The Gaylord has a new “quiet area” families can access daily. Sensory-friendly times and services are available Dec. 13 from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 a.m., which allow kids and families to experience ICE! with reduced music volume, lowered lighting and front of the line access with a ticket purchase for their entire party.
Find a sensory-sensitive packet at the Overnight Guest Christmas Services desk with complimentary ear plugs and an overview for each Christmas activity with sensory adaptations, so parents can choose what attraction is best for them. The packet also includes a map to the location of the quiet area.
Gaylord National Resoirt is located at 201 Waterfront St., in National Harbor, Maryland. For more information, visit gaylordnational.com.
