GREENDALE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- On Sunday, Dec. 7, Southridge Mall will host a unique holiday event called Sensory Santa. The mall is partnering with Autism United of Wisconsin to create a calm and welcoming space for children with sensory sensitivities. Many of the things people love about the holidays, like lights, decorations, and music, create challenges for people with sensory sensitivities. And a visit to the mall can be sensory overload. So, for a few hours Sunday morning, the mall will dim the lights, turn off the music, and give those families time and space to share in the magic of the season.
Julie Quigley is the executive director of Autism United of Wisconsin. She told us, "Sometimes we do look for all the differences but remember that they're just a kid and the parents are just parents." When Quigley's three sons on the autism spectrum were young, they never went to see Santa. Waiting in lines was too much of a challenge. So, she doesn't have those photos and memories. "But if we had a sensory friendly Santa, if we had a Santa who was prepared for different behaviors that we may have," Quigley said, "I would have loved that." The inclusive Sensory Santa event will ensure other families like Julie's do make those memories. From 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., before the mall opens to the public, families can go through the southeast entrance to see Santa. The lights will be dimmed, the music will be off, and there will be lots of fun and support. Quigley said, "You're around your community. You're around people who understand what's going to happen." Southridge Mall has hosted the event for several years. Mall general manager Kyle Lesniewski told us, "We've seen, year after year, relationships that have been created here during this event that have developed." The goal is to help families have an outing together and build a community. "We want to be able to serve as a conduit to help these families connect with these resources that are out there and available to help them," Lesniewski said. Kids will get treat bags that include fidget toys and stuffed animals. There will be snacks and a craft table. Milano's café will have coffee and treats for the adults. And autism United staffers will have a resource table for families at all stages of their autism journey. Julie says it's one of the highlights of the staff's year. She said when the event is over, they often say, "Yep, that's why I work here. Yep, my heart is full because they just see families just being able to be families." The southeast entrance is where to go Sunday, by Macy's. Walk-ins are welcome and no family with sensory sensitivities will be turned away.
