Manhattan Town Center along with K-State Credit Union are presenting Santa Cares this Sunday welcoming children with all spectrums of special needs to a photo environment supportive of their sensory, physical and developmental needs. This is the second year for this sensory-friendly event and will take place prior to public hours on Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to noon., in a comforting and physically accommodating setting designed to lessen behavioral triggers associated with this bustling time of year.
The nationally recognized Santa Cares event will take place at the Santa Photo Experience in Center Court, in partnership with Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization dedicated to funding research into the cause, prevention, treatment and cure for autism, increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders, and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.
“Many children with special needs have never had the opportunity to experience the joy and tradition of a magical visit with Santa. That’s why we are participating in Santa Cares, to create a compassionate, welcoming environment. We will open prior to public hours and create a calmer atmosphere by dimming lights, muting music and fountains. Families will enjoy fun activities while anticipating their private visit, instead of waiting in lines that make some children anxious,” said Jeff Sutton, Marketing Director at Manhattan Town Center.
The private event begins at 10 a.m. and continues until noon at Center Court when the mall opens to the public. Keepsake Santa photo packages will be available for purchase. Families are highly encouraged to RSVP in advance, to reserve their time slot at www.autismspeaks.org/santa2017. Mall hours, including Santa Set times, are available on the mall website at www.ManhattanTownCenter.com.