December 24, 2025
On December 23rd, my kids (2 adults and a pure teenager) and I hit the road to Gruene Tea House for our reservation with Deaf Santa Claus! It was sunny, the temperature was in the 70's, southbound Interstate 35 was heavy as usual with the occasional reckless driver, and the Tea House was cozy and charming. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus were ready (we know Santa knows everything, right?) and welcomed us right away! We interacted, chatted, and encouraged Orion to explore Santa's tactile characteristics, which included his hands, cuff, coat, and beard.
It was an absolute delight just dropping in on time and having a set amount of time to use in any way we liked, which was fantastic for Orion. Well, all of us. We all benefited!
We look forward to the next opportunity for a low-key, personal visit with Santa. (Did I just say SANTA and low-key in the same sentence?!!) Maybe all 3 kids, maybe 2 of them, or just Orion... as the older ones are adults now and life goes on. A "when" moment that we know is coming. Aww.
We wrapped it up with an eat-in dinner at Dan's Hamburgers, another red and white themed establishment. (We don't usually eat out. Orion needs this exercise of staying seated and eating in public spaces.)
Check out more information on Deaf Santa Claus.
It was an absolute delight just dropping in on time and having a set amount of time to use in any way we liked, which was fantastic for Orion. Well, all of us. We all benefited!
We look forward to the next opportunity for a low-key, personal visit with Santa. (Did I just say SANTA and low-key in the same sentence?!!) Maybe all 3 kids, maybe 2 of them, or just Orion... as the older ones are adults now and life goes on. A "when" moment that we know is coming. Aww.
We wrapped it up with an eat-in dinner at Dan's Hamburgers, another red and white themed establishment. (We don't usually eat out. Orion needs this exercise of staying seated and eating in public spaces.)
Check out more information on Deaf Santa Claus.
In the following pictures, can you find examples where Orion is learning about Santa Claus via Hand under Hand? On his own? Engaging in exploration with both hands?
Deaf Santa and Orion are seated next to each other, photo by Mrs. Claus.
Orion touches Santa's left hand! Photo by Ida.
Orion's hand holds onto Mom's hand from above as she touches Santa's Cuff. Orion's fingers appear to touch the cuff as well. Photo by Ida.
Orion continues to hold onto Mom's hand from above with his left hand as Santa uses his left hand to invite Orion to touch his beard. Orion's right hand is in the middle of all the contact happening. Photo by Ida
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