This Christmas, Sky Kids has joined forces with award-winning singer-songwriter Paloma Faith and the Sky Kids Choir to release Silent Night, Gentle Light. This reimagined version of the classic carol sheds light on the sensory challenges neurodiverse children often face during the festive season, available to buy via available on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Music.
The song’s heartfelt lyrics touch on common holiday stressors, such as itchy jumpers, bustling crowds, bright decorations, and noisy shops. It also offers ways to minimize sensory overload, emphasizing joy and inclusivity to help make Christmas a celebration everyone can enjoy.
The release coincides with the Christmas TV special of Ready Eddie Go!, now streaming on Sky Kids. The series explores the world of Eddie, a six-year-old autistic boy, as he navigates everyday experiences. The carol’s lyrics were co-written by the show’s creator, Nikki Saunders, and lead writer Joseph Morpurgo.
Lucy Murphy, Sky’s Director of Kids Content, said: “Ready Eddie Go! is a truly special show for us at Sky Kids. It supports neurodiverse children, their families, and friends as they navigate life’s challenges. Christmas can be particularly tough for some, so we’re thrilled to partner with Paloma Faith and our Sky Kids Choir to reimagine a classic carol that helps everyone celebrate the holidays in their own way.”
Acknowledging that one in seven people in the UK are neurodiverse, Nikki Saunders has collaborated with Caudwell Children’s Charity to offer practical tips for parents on creating a more inclusive and magical Christmas. Suggestions include gradually decorating over several days and maintaining calming routines to help reduce holiday stress.
Nikki Saunders, creator of Ready Eddie Go!, shared: “This campaign is so meaningful, and I’m grateful to everyone involved. I created Eddie for my son, reflecting his experiences as an autistic child. Christmas can bring changes in routine, sensory challenges, and moments of overwhelm. Our Christmas special and this campaign aim to raise awareness and encourage everyone to celebrate Christmas in the way that works best for them.”
All proceeds from Silent Night, Gentle Light will go to Caudwell Children’s Charity, which supports children in need and advocates for inclusivity and accessibility.
A representative from Caudwell Children’s Charity added: “We were thrilled when Sky Kids invited us to join this campaign. The reimagined Silent Night carries an important message: it’s okay to celebrate Christmas in your own way. For families with neurodivergent children, the holidays can be unpredictable and challenging. This campaign reminds families that they can create their own traditions and encourages mindfulness of others. Simple adjustments, like managing bright lights or loud sounds, can make a big difference.”
Silent Night, Gentle Light is now available on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Music.
Discover more from The Version
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.