The Pervasive Parenting Center, a non-profit organization located on the campus of Carl Albert State College in Poteau, will soon be bringing a Sensitive Santa to a location near you.
Sensitive Santa is a specially designed experience for children, particularly those with sensory sensitivities or special needs, to meet Santa Claus in a calm and accommodating environment. This initiative allows children to enjoy the holiday tradition in a way that respects their unique needs, making the season magical for everyone.
Director of the Pervasive Parenting Center Kodey Toney stated, “Any parent of a child on the spectrum, or with sensory sensitivities, knows that waiting in those long lines at the mall to see Santa is an invitation for a meltdown, not to mention the sights, smells, and long delays.
Our events are unique in that they are held in quiet spaces, with soft lighting and minimal noise, avoiding the overwhelming stimuli typical in busy malls or festive gatherings.”
It is important to note that an appointment is needed before each county's event. “This helps families secure a dedicated time slot, ensuring no long lines or crowds, which can be distressing for children with sensory sensitivities,” Toney added.
Santa and his helpers are trained to interact patiently and compassionately, adapting their approach to suit each child’s comfort level. Toney stated, “Children get to meet Santa on their terms, whether with a hug, a high-five, or simply sitting nearby.”
Sensitive Santa is making his first stop in Adair County on December 3, at 5 p.m., in the building where Rowans used to be.
The next stop is the Local Bank Chapman Center next to the local bank in Cherokee County on December 5 at 5 p.m.
After refueling his reindeer, Santa is set to head to the KI BOIS Community Action Building in Haskell County on December 10 at 5 p.m.
After checking how things are going at the North Pole, Santa’s sleigh heads to the KI BOIS Community Action Building in Latimer County on December 12 at 5 p.m.
Sequoyah County is next in line as Santa lands at Carl Albert State College in Sallisaw on December 17 at 5 p.m.
Santa takes his last flight on December 19, stopping in Leflore County at the Pervasive Parenting Center on the Carl Albert State College Campus in Poteau at 4 p.m.
Families may reserve one appointment for multiple children or individual appointments at the link provided: Sensitive Santa online form.
For more information or assistance, contact Terry Yarbery at 918-647-1255 or tyarbery@Pervasiveparentingcenter.org.
Lindsie Dyer, KXMX Staff Writer
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