So many parents enjoy taking their kids to meet Santa at the mall and getting their pictures taken. It is such a common event this time of year. The lines of kids with their parents waiting to take their turn sitting on Santa’s lap. Waiting to tell Santa what they want for Christmas.
For some children and their parents this is a major challenge. What most people take for granted as an easy holiday season activity the parents of children with autism find to be almost impossible.
These parents have the same wishes for their children as all other parents. To participate in all things that other children do. To be able to sit on Santa’s lap and get their pictures taken and be able tell Santa what they are hoping for on Christmas.
Children with autism are often very sensitive to noisy, crowded and over stimulating environments. It is hard to them to wait patiently in lines for long periods. So their parents must often give up on them ever doing something other parents think of as a normal thing to do around Christmas time.
I read a story in the LA Times by Hailey Branson-Potts about a place in Northridge, California, called Rock The Spectrum Kid’s Gym, that has found a way to make Santa accessible to kids with autism. I have a link to the article here: Sensitive Santa The story is very touching as it describes the kids’ reactions when they were able to approach Santa in an environment that was comfortable for them.
I wonder if anyone else has heard of this being done for kids with autism in other places? I think it is a great idea and could easily be copied. What do you think?
Notes Tied On The Sagebrush 
What a great idea!
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I’m glad to hear about Sensitive Santas — going to see Santa has not been a big thing for us, but it is for many families.
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I have recent education in Special Education and I did not think about this issue. What these families might like to do and can’t. I don’t know if anyone anywhere else has thought of this idea. I think it is such a good idea. It gives these kids a chance to participate.
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How very thoughtful!
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This is a great idea! I work with children who are on the autism spectrum, and decreasing sensory overload would really make a difference. I agree with you; Sensitive Santa could be easily duplicated. Thanks for sharing!
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I am so glad to share this story. I hope it can benefit some of your students as well. 🙂
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Long time coming, I bet most parents of special needs children would say. What a great find, Deborah.
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Well if it benefits more kids I would be very happy. I am glad I spotted this story and was able to share it. 🙂
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I agree it’s a wonderful idea.
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