Christmas carols, colourful lights, exuberant elves and a sit on jolly Santa’s knee to whisper a sought-after wish make for an exciting holiday tradition for many children. But for some, it can be an overwhelming and decidedly un-fun experience.
Huntsville Place Mall and Community Living Huntsville aim to change that at the fourth annual Sensitive Santa visit at the mall on December 4.
It takes place in an empty storefront, where the lights are dimmed, there’s no music playing, and sensory activities are in place to help calm and keep young hands occupied while they await the ear of the elf in red.
“The lights and the crowds and the waiting can be too much for some kids, but they still might really want to see Santa,” says Stacey Bullock, a resource teacher at Community Living Huntsville. “This provides a space where any child who finds it overwhelming can still have that experience but they can have it on their terms.”
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- Sensory activities help keep kids occupied while they wait for Santa (Photo: Community Living Huntsville)
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- Sensory activities help keep kids occupied while they wait for Santa (Photo: Community Living Huntsville)
Sensitive Santa is available for all ages, says Lindsay Edwards, Huntsville Place Mall’s marketing and promotions manager. She recalls a young man in his twenties who was able to visit Santa for the first time thanks to the program. Siblings are also welcome, and Becker Shoes is sponsoring one complimentary 5×7 portrait per family.
Sensitive Santa visits Huntsville Place Mall on Sunday, December 4 from 10 a.m. to noon. To reserve a time, email [email protected] or call 705-788-3889 extension 1 to register.
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