CHARLES TOWN, W.Va. -- Jefferson County Schools (JCS) once again offered holiday cheer to neurodiverse students and their families with its third annual Sensory Santa. The event allowed sensory-sensitive children to participate in the time-honored holiday tradition of visiting Santa Claus in a calm, less chaotic environment.
Sensory Santa offers JCS families an individual visit with Santa without waiting in line or feeling rushed, said Haley Kern, JCS Parent and Educator Resource Coordinator (PERC). Families are invited to reserve half-hour time slots to visit Santa in a safe space that has been decorated and equipped with sensory-friendly lighting, music, and activities. A hot cocoa bar and dietary and sensory-friendly snacks and gift bags for students complete the holiday-themed ambiance.
Held at the Corner Connection in Charles Town, this year's event featured the debut of the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who joining Santa and Mrs. Claus in the festivities. JCS student and staff volunteers were also on hand to greet families and help guide them through the available activities.
JCS parent Brittany Elder (pictured above) said the experience makes a difference to her son, Aiden, a second grader at Paige Jackson Elementary School. This year marked their family's first visit with Sensory Santa.
"It means everything to have Aiden be included and able to visit with Santa," said Elder. "It's so much fun and so peaceful and calm."
The Edgar Family visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Becky Edgar first visited Sensory Santa in 2022 with her daughter, Patience, a ninth grader at Jefferson High School. She appreciates the sensory-friendly activities offered at the event.
"Being able to touch and feel the different textures is really nice [for Patience]."
Edgar added that typical Santa visits can feel overwhelming, while Sensory Santa allows Patience to slow down and enjoy her visit.
"She's able to concentrate and enjoy Santa and the decorations," said Edgar. "And she can actually say to him, 'This is what I want' or 'I'd really like this.'"
JCS first offered Sensory Santa in 2021, with 17 families in attendance. Over the past two years, growing interest has resulted in its continued expansion, with this year's event held over three days on December 12, 13, and 16.
Visit the JCS Facebook page and socials for more Sensory Santa photos!
Header Photo: Brittany Elder with sons Aiden (r.) and Finley (l.) visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at the 2023 JCS Sensory Santa event.