Cherry Hills Programs and Autism Speaks are teaming up for the 10th year to present hundreds of Santa Cares events across the country. Here in North Texas, nine malls hosting this sensory-friendly Santa event. These are geared toward helping families with autistic children enjoy the holiday spirit in a safe and controlled space.
“Without sensory-friendly experiences like this, my kids don’t have the opportunity to see Santa,” said Cassie Hauschildt, who is the social media manager for Autism Speaks and has two children with autism.
Hauschildt says she tried to take her kids to see another Santa earlier in this holiday season, but her son couldn’t stand in a line without having a panic attack.
“These types of events aren’t only important for the children with autism, but also for their siblings who want to see Santa,” she said. “The parents have to take care of both of their kids’ needs.”
News Roundups
Santa Cares focuses on helping kids with autism feel less overwhelmed. The events take place outside of regular venue hours with reduced sound, adjusted lighting, smaller crowds, and shorter wait times to minimize sensory triggers.
The seasonal staff and the Santas at these events are also trained in accommodating children with autism and making this a positive experience for them and their families. Kids get an extra time during their visit with Santa and can even play with him. Pictures can also be taken during this special time.
Families can find the experience closest to them and reserve their spot online using the website whereissanta.com. Walk-ups may be available as well.
“Santa’s not going to care if your child doesn’t speak or if they speak too loud or if they don’t want to touch or touches too much because he is prepared for the situation,” said Hauschildt. “This is one of those places where you can come and let your children have a meaningful childhood experience that every child gets.”
Here is a list of the nine malls in North Texas hosting Santa Cares.
- Irving Mall, 3880 Irving Mall, Irving
- Firewheel Town Center Mall, 410 Town Center Boulevard, Garland
- The Shops at Willow Bend, 6121 West Park Blvd, Plano
- Grapevine Mills, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Grapevine
- Stonebriar Centre, 2601 Preston Road, Frisco
- The Parks at Arlington, 3811 South Cooper Street, Arlington
- North East Mall, 1101 Melbourne St, Hurst
- Hulen Mall, 4800 South Hulen Street, Fort Worth
The Go See DFW calendar is a partnership between KERA and The Dallas Morning News.
Arts Access is an arts journalism collaboration powered by The Dallas Morning News and KERA.
This community-funded journalism initiative is funded by the Better Together Fund, Carol & Don Glendenning, City of Dallas OAC, Communities Foundation of Texas, The University of Texas at Dallas, The Dallas Foundation, Eugene McDermott Foundation, James & Gayle Halperin Foundation, Jennifer & Peter Altabef and The Meadows Foundation. The News and KERA retain full editorial control of Arts Access’ journalism.