December 24, 2022
By: Bill Konger
Instead of Ho! Whoa! Whoa! it’s more like No! No! No! That’s the case for some parents who want their kids to enjoy visiting Santa but are hampered by their sensory issues. Kids Express Therapy in Smithville, which offers speech, occupational and physical therapy, hosted a sensory sensitive Santa event Saturday (Dec. 10) at their offices at 612 South Congress Boulevard.
“A sensory sensitive Santa event is geared toward children with special needs, who may find it difficult to attend similar events that other children enjoy,” says Kids Express Owner/Manager Alyssa Conger, SLP-CCC. “Things like loud noises, long lines, and excessive visual stimulation can cause a meltdown in kids who can’t process sensory information the way we do. Our event is by appointment only, eliminating long lines and reducing overstimulating noises and sights. We will also provide devices for communication in case children have trouble telling Santa what they want.”
“A lot of kids are scared of Santa Claus at first, and that’s not unusual, but for the kids with sensory issues, the whole process can be problematic before they see the big man in red,” Conger adds. “Bright lights in a mall, the smell of food in the food court, queues and crowds in brightly colored clothes and too much perfume; children crying or encroaching on their personal space, etc. can be extremely overwhelming for them.
Chad and Brooke Mathis brought their children to St. Nick. In the past, greeting the jolly old elf was a real struggle, but not this time.
“Usually we have to queue and usually there’s a big crowd,” says Brooke Mathis. Now that Hudson has autism, he’s mostly screaming and breaking down. But here he has to do one-on-one with him (Santa) and warm up for Santa Claus. He enjoyed it. I think he felt more comfortable here.”
“We love our children in the community who need extra support, and we love the families here,” Conger said. “We believe that Christmas magic is for everyone and we want all children to have the opportunity to enjoy these activities.”
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