LAYTON—The hustle and bustle of the holidays can be overwhelming for someone who is autistic. Standing in line to sit on Santa’s lap, bright lights and noisy crowds can sometimes be too much for an autistic child. That’s why Layton Hills Mall is holding a special event called Sensory Santa for families to have a safe, comfortable environment to enjoy the festivities of Christmas. 

“Families need sensory inclusion days,” said Stacy Bernal, founder of Awesome Autism Ogden. “It’s more welcoming to have a time set aside. Also you don’t have to be worried about being judged. My 20-year-old son looks and behaves in a way that people don’t understand. To come in and feel a sense of relief and understanding is more inclusive.”

“It’s an opportunity for families to have reduced noise, soft lighting and a calming atmosphere," said Glady Larsen, Marketing & Community Engagement Manager at Layton Hills Mall. “We want to offer a central space where families can have a joyful, meaningful experience.”

“For many families, a typical holiday experience isn’t always accessible – and that’s why events like this matter,” said Bernal. “Sensory Santa helps to ensure that children of all abilities can participate in the magic of the season in a way that feels comfortable and empowering. We’re grateful to partner with Layton Hills Mall to create an inclusive space during the holidays.”

Sensory Santa will be held Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-11 a.m. in the Center Court. “We’re holding it on a Sunday before the mall opens,” said Larsen. “That way there won’t be any music or crowds. We don’t want our families to be overstimulated.”

Layton Hills Mall is located at 1201 N. Hill Field Rd., Layton. For more information visit https://www.shoplaytonhills.com/.