Sensory-friendly Santa Claus returns to Kelowna mall

Autism Okanagan is hosting sensory-friendly visit with Santa for families who have kids on the autism spectrum.

The Santa visits are for children with autism who require sensory-friendly activities who cannot, because of sensory sensitivities, usually partake in traditional Christmas activities like taking a picture with Santa Claus in the mall.

“It’s pretty heart-warming to see these families with their children with whom, for some, it’s the first time they’re able to get to meet Santa because it’s just too difficult to do that in a busy mall or a lineup,” Autism Okanagan president Tammy Gilmour said.

The idea for the sensory-friendly Santa visits started eight years ago when Kelowna realtors brought the idea to the organization. Since then, Autism Okanagan has partnered with Kelowna’s Actor Studio to make a sensory-friendly Santa team that autistic children and their families can enjoy.

The event is designed for children with sensory sensibilities and is available to their families who wish to take a picture with them and Santa.

“We work with a Santa team in a closed environment and let families with their kids with autism come and see Santa in a low stimulation, low weight environment,” Gilmour said.

The visits, to be held at The District Mall at 565 Bernard Ave. from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 3 and Dec. 10, are free of charge and include a free picture as well, but registration is required on Autism Okanagan’s website here.

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