Christmas for autistic children is not quite the same as it is for the typical child as the season’s festivities, decorations, lights, music and crowds are often too much for the child to take in. It causes a sensory overload which is particularly stressful for the child.
For most autistic children, even having their picture taken with Santa Claus is a challenge. Well-meaning parents who want to capture this traditional photo opportunity with Santa Claus would rather not go through the process as it causes their child undue stress. Waiting patiently in line to see Santa Claus in a noisy mall filled with Christmas decors, loud music and huge crowds is definitely not something that will be enjoyable for most autistic children. In fact, for most autistic children, an experience like this is enough to cause some temper tantrums.
Luckily, there is now an option for autistic children to go and visit Santa Claus. Those who want to experience sharing a moment with Santa Claus to talk about their Christmas wishes can now do so without having to worry about the usual noise and chaos associated with visiting Santa Claus at the mall.
Glimcher Realty Trust now offers sensitive Santa sessions in their two dozen malls nationwide as well as to some organizations and autism family groups. They have hired several sensitive Santas who can adjust their behavior and manner to the special needs of the autistic children. For example, the sensitive Santa often starts out with a mellow Ho Ho Ho greeting instead of using the usual hearty and booming voice. They pay attention to the autistic child and only communicates with the child when they are ready. No one is forced to sit beside Santa and there is no pressure given to the child to communicate.
You will also be pleased to know that a few malls have already begun to set up sessions for special visits by those with special needs. These sessions are usually held during times when the mall is closed to the public. If you haven’t yet experienced bringing your child to a sensitive Santa session, now is a good time to check your local mall for such opportunities.
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I am a new mall Santa as of last season. The mall at which I work is new at having their own Santa after several years of hiring an outside agency.
I am a firm believer in the ‘spirit’ of Santa Claus and would love to learn how I could pass the true spirit of Christmas on to disadvantaged children and autistic children. I am very good at what I do and I talk to children about love and respect for family, friends and everyone in general. I have been told I am very good at being Santa to the point where families lined up for 2 hours to visit. Please advise me how I can do more. Thank you.