A typical visit with Santa is often accompanied with bright lights, loud
noises and long wait times. For children with sensory sensitivities, including
those on the autism spectrum, the experience can be anything but jolly.
Knowing how important this tradition can be for children (and their parents),
Southeast Georgia Health System is offering an opportunity for children with special needs to visit with
Santa in an environment specially designed for them.
“Our goal is to help children with sensory challenges have a joyful
Santa experience by providing an environment that helps the child feel
safe and secure,” says Erica Boyd, OTR/L, occupational therapist,
Southeast Georgia Health System. “Kelly Sigman, our Sensory Santa,
has received special training and knows how to do just that.”
Kelly Sigman, aka Sensory Santa, is a Graduate of Charles W. Howard Santa
Claus School and a member of the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas.
The free Sensory Santa visit will take place in a quiet room with lowered
lights. Reservations are required and limited to one 15-minute session
per child. A professional photographer will not be available; however,
parents may take as many photos as they wish within the reserved time.
Social distancing will be gently enforced, and face masks and hand sanitizers
will be available.
The Sensory Santa visits are available by reservation only and will be
held on December 19th and 20th , beginning at 4 p.m. Reservations are
limited and early registration is encouraged. To reserve a time or for
more information, please call Doreen Sigman at 912-264-4550 or send an email to
sigman1@comcast.net.