Going to see Santa is one of the most exciting activities of the holiday season for many children and their families…for others, it is a source of stress, anxiety, tears and meltdowns. The experience of meeting Santa is not always a smooth, happy trip. It often involves long lines requiring patience and remaining still, bustling people all around, loud noises and sounds everywhere…an overwhelming experience overall for many children and their families.

For these children, Special Santa is a wonderful alternative. Special Santa, put on by Northwest Special Families and supported by many local organizations, including Bothell Pediatric and Hand Therapy, provides children with special needs a different, more calming experience to meet Santa. Appointments to meet Santa are scheduled in advance, so there are no long lines, no waiting in a sea of people. You can get in and get out, should you choose. In addition, there is a bake sale, crafts, and games to keep children occupied and allow them to have fun in the meantime! The experience to visit Santa is one that is quiet and peaceful. Each family gets their own time with Santa in a separate room, without noise, distractions, and rushing through the meeting. There is a photographer to capture this special moment as well.

I volunteered at the bake sale, and got to see the event going on from all perspectives. I saw children connecting with others around their age, making friends and memories with their peers…a priceless experience!

I saw parents helping out other parents who were strangers, and I saw the relief on the faces of many parents when they were greeted with understanding and support rather than judgement when their child expressed themselves by running around, exercising their bodies and their voices ☺

It was a truly magical experience that captured the holiday spirit the way it is intended to…with support, understanding, and a sense of community. Special Santa is an incredible event that brought joy to hundreds of children and their families. It is an event that I plan to make volunteering at a holiday tradition of my own!

For more information for next year visit Northwest Special Families’ website and also check out KING5 News’ coverage on the event here.