SenseAbility Gym's 2nd Annual Sensory Friendly Holiday Party

SenseAbility Gym Incorporated, a non-profit in Hopedale, MA, is hosting their 2nd Annual Sensory Friendly Santa party for families of children with special needs.  The party will be Sunday, December 8th, from 2pm-5:30pm at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church Function Room, 187 Hopedale Street, Hopedale, MA.

"As parents of children with sensory issues, we know that sometimes it’s hard for some children to be in the mall to see Santa," said Alysia Butler, Co-Director of SenseAbility Gym.  "The lines are long, the lights and noises are overwhelming, and sometimes the kids and parents just can’t stay. For children with autism, ADHD and similar diagnoses, everything can get too overwhelming.  And many times it means that their siblings miss out on an opportunity for a visit with St. Nick. We wanted to create an environment where every family could enjoy a holiday party and a visit with Santa if they wanted to."

At the holiday party, Santa will be available for children to visit with on their own terms. They can talk to him quietly or sit next to him.  No long lines to wait in. Parents can choose to have their child’s photo taken and e-mailed to them after the event.

"Last year's event was so successful that we knew we had to do it again.  We had parents say that it was the first time that their child was able to sit next to Santa for a photo with the whole family," said Butler.

The event is open to the public for any family who might want – or need – a quiet place to sit with Santa.  The kids will have a safe place to have a snack and do some holiday crafts.  Parents will have a safe place to talk and get support.

There will be two sessions with Santa this year - the first one from 2:00-3:30pm and the second one from 4-5:30pm.  Please RSVP for one of the sessions via Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sensory-friendly-santa-party-tickets-6634336479 .

$10 donation per family is requested at the door.  All proceeds will go to SenseAbility Gym.