Yesterday we visited @donkeysanctuarysidmouth, a place we visit often that Ethan loves, for something to eat & a mooch around. I don’t know if we accidentally arrived during a Breakfast with Santa event, but he was there wandering around chatting to all the children.

When I first saw Santa I have to admit I had a little pang of anxiety thinking oh my goodness, what will Ethan do if he speaks with us – how will he react? But – I didn’t need to worry. Santa came over & was the most caring, inclusive & wonderful guy. I explained Ethan spoke via his AAC device & together we pressed “Santa Claus” & wished him a “Merry Christmas”. Santa seemed to totally understand, let Ethan touch his beard & I shared that if you say “nice to meet you” Ethan loves to shake your hand & he did exactly that. Santa then wonderfully communicated via Makaton including one sign to say “thank you” to Ethan for shaking his hand. 🤝💜

Ethan then made a “I’ve had enough, please go away” noise 🤣 & Santa understood the assignment instantly & we signed “finished” & waved goodbye.

A very short thirty second experience with Santa – but a wonderful one none-the-less. It seems magical accidents are a theme of this Christmas so far for us. What will be next? 🎅🥰✨