Press Release by Jennifer Toney
The Pervasive Parenting Center and Eastern Oklahoma State College will present Sensitive Santa in Wilburton. This is an opportunity for anyone with sensory issues or disabilities to meet Santa without standing in the long lines.
For some families with children on the autism spectrum, or with other sensory problems, the holiday season can be overwhelming.
The long lines at stores to get a couple seconds with Santa, which may or may not work out, can be frustrating for a child with autism and the families.
There is an alternative to those lines and hotbeds for meltdowns. The Pervasive Parenting Center will be holding Sensitive Santa. The event is a great way for children with disabilities and sensory issues to enjoy the holiday season.
“Any parent of a child on the spectrum knows that waiting in those long lines is just an invitation to a meltdown. The sights, smells, and long delay can cause a sensory overload that will leave a bad impression of Christmas. Children with disabilities who attend can enjoy a quiet evening with Santa, and don’t have to wait in lines,” said Kodey Toney, Pervasive Parenting Center Director. “This is the eleventh year that we have held the event.
“We are happy to be partnering with Eastern Oklahoma State College this year,” said Toney.
Toney went on to say that Sensitive Santa is soft spoken, unlike the boisterous, jolly soul that we see at the mall. The stereotypical reproduction of the real man from the north is usually too much for a neurotypical child to handle, much less someone that is easily upset by loud sounds. He won’t touch the children unless they come up to him. They don’t have to sit in his lap unless they want to.
“This has been such a blessing for us to sponsor,” said Toney. “Every year we see children interact with Santa that wouldn’t typically get a chance to, and Santa is so patient.”
This year, due to Covid-19, families will be asked to remain outside the building, and a call or text will be sent to bring the child and one family member inside. This will allow time to sanitize, and cut down on interaction with others.
These events will begin at 6 p.m. each night. The event is held by appointment only. You will be asked to leave a phone number.
Sensitive Santa is open to ALL children with disabilities, not just those on the spectrum. We understand that not all children will feel comfortable around huge crowds, and it’s inconvenient to wait in line with any type of disability. The only thing we ask is that this is for just the children with disabilities; no siblings. Too many children can mean too many distractions.
If you want more information, or to make an appointment, please contact Terry Yarbery at 918-658-9538, or contact us on Facebook at Pervasive Parenting Center.
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