Toowoomba children with sensory disorders like autism and Asperger’s will be able to see Santa in a quiet and calming environment this festive season as Grand Central hosts the first Sensory Santa.
Taking place outside of normal trading hours from 8am to 10am on Sunday 6 of December, the Sensory Santa experience features no background music, spotlights, noise or queues. And, both the Santa on duty and the photographer have experience with special needs children and will ensure everyone is as comfortable as possible
Chanelle Avison, a mother to 11-year-old autistic twins and a 16-year-old daughter with Asperger’s Syndrome, started the Sensory Santa experience to take the stress out of the event for parents with special needs children.
“The only photo I had of the twins with Santa was taken when they were nine months old, and I wondered how many other families had gaps in their photo albums,” Ms Avison said.
“Sensory Santa is about starting another inclusive event for families with special needs, getting them out of their homes and filling their lives with new adventures – and photos for their albums.
“It’s amazing to see how much joy Sensory Santa brings to these kids and their families.”
To book your five minute Sensory Santa session at Grand Central, contact Chanelle Avison on 0422 416 509 or email sensorymovieday@hotmail.com.
The Sensory Santa appointments will take place at Centre Court, Grand Central from 8am to 10am Sunday 6 December.
