‘Sensitive Santa’ sessions help kids with additional needs meet jolly man in red

Local resident Hayley Edwards getting her photo taken with Santa
Share this story

As the festive season gets closer and closer, children all over Penrith will soon start having their highly anticipated photos with the man in the red suit.

Ensuring all children have the opportunity to have their pictures taken with Santa, local shopping centres are launching ‘sensitive Santa’ sessions for those with additional needs.

At Glenmore Park Town Centre, Parents are able to book a timeslot from Sunday, November 10, with Santa set to suit up from Sunday, November 17.

Owner of Lasting Memories Photography, Barbara Pascuzzi, said they do whatever is necessary to ensure children feel safe.

“We try to make it really gentle by minimising noise, busyness and minimise whatever we need to help the kids feel as comfortable as they can,” she said.

“Busy shopping centres with long queues can be very hectic, especially when those queues mean people are waiting three hours.

“When we do it at Glenmore Park we will be doing it early in the morning before the shops open or late in the afternoon when they’re closed.”

By booking in advance, families do not have to wait amongst crowds.

“These children should have the opportunity just like any other kid does, they believe in Santa too, he is special for everybody so why should they miss out,” she said.

To book or for more information, visit bit.ly/2PLqK91.

Westfield Penrith is also hosting sensitive Santa sessions, starting on Monday, November 11. Book via their website.


Share this story