CARD, Autism Live and We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym Host Drive-Thru Sensitive Santa Holiday Event
December 15,2020
Children will have the opportunity to meet Santa and his helpers, who are experienced in interacting with children with autism
WOODLAND HILLS, Calif., Dec. 11, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Autism Live and We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym have partnered this holiday season again to host a special event for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). For all children and their families’ health and safety, the event is now drive-thru only, and modifications have been made per the gym’s strict COVID-19 protocol. Santa and his helpers will be behind clear plexiglass at all times to enforce social distancing and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
This year’s event will be held at We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym at 5520 Crebs Avenue, Tarzana, CA, 91356, on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is free and requires prior registration here.
Spending time with Santa can be a challenge for children with ASD and their families, according to Shannon Penrod, host of Autism Live and the mother of a child diagnosed with autism.
“We started this event because these youngsters can be overwhelmed with sensory issues such as lights, waiting in line and being placed on Santa’s lap, Penrod said. “An experience that is a joy to a typical child could cause a meltdown in those with autism. So, 7 years ago, we created a special ‘Sensitive Santa’ event catering specifically to families with children with autism. The event has become a tradition for these families, and we didn’t want them to miss out this year, so we made some changes.”
This year registered families will participate in a special drive-thru event. Santa will wave and special elves will place gifts from Santa in the trunk of the car.
“This is one of our favorite days of the year,” said We Rock the Spectrum Founder and CEO, Dina Kimmel. “Our Sensitive Santa event brings vast warmth and happiness to the entire family. The kids light up the second they see Santa and the parents feel comfortable knowing their children are in a safe and accepting environment. We are so proud that we are still able to offer this magical experience despite the setbacks from COVID-19.”
All children who attend will receive a special gift from Sensitive Santa. The high-quality toys that will be given away are featured on Autism Live’s Festival of Toys throughout Dec. and are chosen based upon the quality and how they help children on the spectrum build skills and make progress towards achieving their goals. To view Autism Live’s 2020 Toy and Gift Guide, visit http://www.autism-live.com/ToyGuide.
About Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD)
CARD treats individuals of all ages diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at treatment centers around the globe. CARD was founded in 1990 by leading autism expert and clinical psychologist Doreen Granpeesheh, PhD, BCBA-D. CARD treats individuals with ASD using the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA), which is empirically proven to be the most effective method for treating individuals with ASD and recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the US Surgeon General. CARD employs a dedicated team of trained professionals across the nation and internationally. For more information, visit centerforautism.com.
About Autism Live
Autism Live is an interactive web show providing support, resources, information, facts, entertainment and inspiration to parents, teachers and practitioners working with children on the Autism Spectrum. With live and recorded programming Monday through Friday, Autism Live is the most-watched program dedicated solely to the larger Autism Community. For more information, visit autism-live.com.
About We Rock the Spectrum: Founded in 2010, We Rock the Spectrum is an international franchise opportunity that provides sensory-safe play for kids with autism, special needs and neurotypical development. Each franchise location features twelve pieces of uniquely designed therapeutic equipment that promotes learning, development and sensory-safe play. Learn more about the We Rock the Spectrum franchise, its specialized equipment and the various services it offers by visiting their Corporate website wrtsfranchise.com.
