A visit to Santa Claus can be a joyous experience for many children, as they cherish the opportunity to share their fondest Yuletide gift wishes with Father Christmas himself. Yet for some children, the noise and spectacle associated with this visit could prove to be overwhelming. And for these children, Brooksville Main Street will host the Sensory Inspired Santa Experience 2-3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 20, at Brooksville Welcome Center, 205 E. Fort Dade Ave. in Brooksville. The event is free, and no pre-registration is required. “This is for special needs children who might be overwhelmed by the lights and noise of a visit with Santa. In our experience, the lights are low, Santa talks more slowly, and we don’t play loud music,” said Natalie Kahler, Executive Director of Brooksville Main Street.
This is the second year that Brooksville Main Street is hosting this new Christmas tradition in Brooksville, which also will feature an appearance by Mrs. Claus and holiday crafts. And as with other Santa experiences, kids can pose for commemorative photos with Father Christmas. “We wanted to provide more services in the community for special needs children and kids of different skill levels, and this experience has proven especially good for autistic children, those with Aspberger’s and sensory issues. We welcomed 20 kids last year,” said Kahler.
Events such as the Sensory Inspired Santa Experience guarantee that no child misses out on the jubilant rays of sunshine that come as part and parcel of a visit with Santa Claus. “Year after year, Santa makes kids happy,” said Kahler.
