Sensitive Santa available for special-needs children
By JEFF STITT
jstitt@yourmvi.com
For some children who are on the autism spectrum and others who live with sensory processing disorder or have “sensory integration needs,” bright lights and flashing cameras, loud sounds and music, crowds of people and even smells can be overwhelming and anxiety inducing.
Because of those sensory triggers and because malls and community Christmas parties and celebrations can be loud, crowded and adorned with flashing lights — it’s often difficult for parents of young children with sensory-integration needs to find an opportunity for their child to meet Santa Claus.
Mon Valley parents who know this struggle and the heartbreak of fearing their child might not get to meet the man with the big white beard need look no further.
For the past 10 years, Christy Chicklo, director of special education for South Allegheny School District, has been providing an opportunity for children who “have special needs when it comes to sensory triggers” through the Sensitive Santa event.
Sensory Processing Disorder is a neurological disorder in which the sensory information that the individual perceives results in “abnormal responses,” according to the STAR Institute for Sensory Processing Disorder.
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