A photo with Santa can be a joyous experience. But for children who struggle with sensory issues, the loud noises of other children squealing and cameras snapping can make the experience feel less enjoyable and more chaotic.
The Allison-Jukebox Community Center held its annual Sensory-Friendly Photos with Santa on Saturday. Children who would otherwise be overwhelmed by taking their photo with Santa could have a private room booked just for them, their family and the Clauses.
Dave and Sherrie Everton have attended Santa Claus events for years, but began working with this event last year. Sherrie has worked with children with disabilities for 19 years.
“I’m sure it’s hard enough for the parents and the children to feel different,” Dave said. “The more they can feel normal, that’s gotta be a good thing.”
Not only does this special event bring joy to the children and their families, but it also brings joy to the Clauses. Sherrie said that when a child catches their first glimpse of Mr. and Mrs. Claus, the words to describe the experience are “spiritual, magical and joy.”
Along with sensory-friendly photos, the Evertons spend their time doing other events with the City of Bloomington in hopes of continuing to spread the Christmas spirit.
“Santa and Mrs. Claus are semi-retired now, so they have a little bit more time on their hands,” Dave said. “We have more elves too which really helps. You know, we delegate our responsibilities to the elves more.”
This Santa and Mrs. Claus attended the Holiday Market last week, and they will be at Frank Southern Ice Arena this Saturday for Skate with Santa.
