A visit to see Santa Claus is a Christmas tradition for many Calgary families but for some children with special needs, the lights, sounds, and lineups of Santa’s workshops can be too much stimulation.
For many years, children with autism and their families missed out on the Santa Claus experience, but Southcentre Mall has set aside special meet and greet sessions with St. Nick to ensure everyone is included.
On Sunday morning, prior to the opening of the mall, children with autism were given a special audience with Santa, complete with dimmed lighting and no music.
Visits during Sunday morning’s photography session were by appointment only to avoid disruptive lineups.
Carol Bossom and her son Jeremy were among the participants. For the Bossoms, it's their only opportunity to take part in a Christmas tradition which many people take for granted.
“It’s about making it accessible to Jeremy and all the other kiddos that come here,” explains Carol. “It’s such a big deal to me, and other people too, to come and see Santa. It’s a normal tradition.”
The unique Santa visits will continue at Southcentre Mall over the next two Sundays and regular Santa photo pricing applies.
To reserve a photo time slot for a child with autism, please contact Krista at Southcentre, 403-225-5348.
This is the second year of accessible Santa visits at the mall. Southcentre was the first shopping centre in Canada to host the inclusive events.
This year, nine other Canadian malls are following suit and are hosting similar sessions.
