Richland Mall teamed up with Autism Speaks and Cherry Hill Programs to host 'Santa Cares', a sensory-friendly event where children can enjoy a time-honored tradition in a calming environment.
It's been a few years since 8-year-old Rodrigo Castaneda last saw Santa.
The hustle and bustle at the mall can be difficult for him to handle, but this year it's different.
He and a handful of other children with autism are meeting with the big guy before the mall opens to avoid sensory triggers such as music, bright lights, and mall traffic.
"It went good! He told him he wanted popcorn and Elmo for Christmas," said Adeline Castaneda, Rodrigo's mom.
Adeline said Rodrigo is getting better at socializing with others.
"It makes me really happy," Castaneda said. "He actually engaged with him. He gave him a hug, looked at him, he wasn't crying. He really did a good job!"
This moment reminded Adeline how much progress Rodrigo has made over the years. The photo is just a plus.
"It's been such a journey trying to get to the point we're at now," Castaneda said. "We all want our children to do as much as they can and be accepted."
Maiste Martinez took her son 2-year-old son, Mateo, and his sister to see Santa.
"He doesn't do well with places where it's overcrowded, so I thought this was a good idea," Martinez said. "They were prepared and knew what to expect with special needs children. Sometimes we have to modify little things."
7-year-old Kai Dixon was excited to hand over his letter to Santa. He only had two things on his wish list.
"It was fun," Kai said. "Exciting just giving him a card."
Children were able to color, play with Legos and eat cookies as they waited to see Santa.
Sensory-friendly experiences will take place across the country throughout the holiday season. For the full list of dates and locations, click here.
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