Autism-friendly Santas a hit at malls, parties

HARTFORD, Connecticut (AP):

VISITING A shopping mall to share Christmas wishes with Santa had always been too much for 10-year-old Ben Borre, because of the autism that makes the noise, lights and crowds an unbearable torment.

But now a growing number of "sensitive" Santas in shopping centres, at community parties and elsewhere are giving Ben and others a chance to meet the big guy in autism-friendly settings - allowing their families to capture Christmas memories that other families may take for granted.

Ohio-based Glimcher Realty Trust recently started offering sensitive Santa sessions in its two dozen malls nationwide, and service organisations and autism family groups have recruited low-key Kris Kringles who adjust their demeanour to the special needs of their young guests.

"Every parent dreads the noise and chaos of the mall Santa scene, but this isn't even dreading. It's just literally un-doable for us," said Darlene Borre of West Hartford, Ben's mother.

Ben, a non-verbal fourth-grader, is among the up to 1.5 million Americans living with autism spectrum disorders that can include delays or disabilities in communication, behaviour and socialisation. They can range from mild difficulties to significant impairments that make it difficult for those children to interact with others.

Many children with autism are especially sensitive to loud noises, jangling music, crowds and unpredictable situations, and could not wait patiently in a long line to see Santa.

The Borres tried without success a few times over the years to grab quick snapshots if Ben walked close enough to any Santa, but with mixed results.

Now, he visits an autism-friendly Santa each December at a local playground. The sensitive Santa happens to be Ben's grandfather, Ray Lepak, who was compelled after seeing what his daughter's family was experiencing.

"Just because a family has a child with special needs doesn't mean they don't want all the same memories that everyone else does," Borre said. "We all want those same holiday joyful moments; it just has to be approached differently."

Ben's sister, four-year-old Lila, who does not have autism, is getting wise to the fact that Santa and Grandpa bear a suspicious resemblance. But she's not letting on to Ben.

Lepak, 69, of Manchester, recently donned his Santa suit - plus a brand-new beard and snow-white wig - and met with several Hartford-area children and their parents. He's learned over the years how to pep it up for siblings who don't have autism, and how to tone it down for children who seem overwhelmed.