Malls In The US Are Opening Early So Kids With Autism Can Visit Santa In A Calm Environment

December 16, 2019

During the busy holiday shopping season, malls can get crowded and loud – and to some kids, that can be overwhelming.

So, two organizations are teaming up to make visiting Santa at the mall a more pleasant experience.

malls open early for Santa kids Autism
Credit: Autism Speaks

The nonprofit Autism Speaks, along with Cherry Hill Programs, are holding "Santa Cares" days in malls across the country. Malls will open early for these events, so it will be less busy and overwhelming.

The lights will be dimmed and the music will be lowered, allowing children to visit Santa in a calmer setting.

Santa himself is also trained on how to interact with special-needs children.