Sensitive Santa offers quiet time for special needs children

It's not unusual for some kids to be overwhelmed having their photo taken with Santa at the shopping mall, but for kids with autism, it can be truly too much.

That's why this year one mother in Kelowna is teaming up with a local mall to create a more relaxing environment with a sensitive Santa.

Tracey Brecko says her six-year-old son Paxton's past visits to meet Santa have been less than merry.

"We wanted that photo with Santa, and it was really forcing him to do it. No one was having fun. He wasn't having any fun. We left exhausted and frustrated," said Brecko.

Paxton has autism and he's especially sensitive to light and noise.

"It's a sensory load for anyone, especially my son."

That's why she's organized the sensitive Santa event for kids like her son.

Time to dim the lights

Like similar events in other malls across Canada in recent years, it will be held after regular shopping hours, and each family will have ample time to warm up to Santa.

"They are going to dim their lights, they are going to make their music very, very quiet, so that the kids coming in are not overwhelmed by the sights and sounds."

Brecko says reaction from parents has been overwhelming.

"I've had parents call and say they've never taken their child to Santa because they have a hard time going into the mall."

The sensitive Santa event is at Orchard Park Mall, this Sunday.To reserve one of the few remaining spots call 250-575-6448