Winterfest – For All Kids with Sensory Issues/Special Needs
Enjoy crafts, pictures with “Sensitive Santa and Mrs. Claus”,visits with the local fire department, a movie and more!
“Winterfest”
(for children/youth of Central PA with special needs)
Saturday, December 10th
8:45 am – 12:30 pm
Carmike Cinema – Convention Center Location
8:45 – Arts and Crafts
Mrs. Claus and the Conductor will be at the photo op section with 3D props.
Sensory Center will be open if needed
Comic Vault will have activities for children and youth
(Arts and crafts, photo op center, and sensory center will be open until 12:00/12:15) 9:15 to 9:45 – Loco with the Altoona Curve will arrive
9:45 The Polar Express movie begins – Cost per person is $2.00
11:20 – The Polar Express movie ends
11:30 to 12:00 – Allegheny Township Fire Department arrives with fire trucks. Blair County Antique Auto Club arrives with vintage cars. They will be parked outside the theater. The fire department will not sound the sirens.
**Any child/youth with a permanent physical limitation or special need can attend.
Parents will have to accompany their child during the event.
Reservations are needed to meet with “Sensitive Santa” – please text 703-919-1428 to reserve your spot!
What is a sensory friendly movie?
In 2007, AMC Theatres (AMC) and the Autism Society teamed up to offer the “Sensory Friendly Films” program as a special opportunity for individuals living with autism/SPD and others to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis. In order to provide a more accepting and comfortable setting for individuals on the autism spectrum and/or an SPD, the movie auditorium keeps their lights turned slightly up (dim lights will remain on) and the sound turned slightly down. Because some have strict, special dietary needs, families are permitted to bring their own gluten-free, casein-free snacks from home.
NO PREVIEWS.
Additionally, audience members are welcome to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing – in other words, AMC’s “Silence is Golden” policy will not be enforced unless the safety of the audience is in question. Being able to relax and enjoy quality family time without worrying if someone will complain or be disturbed by noise of movement is a wonderful experience. Many others, not on the autism spectrum, also enjoy Sensory Friendly Films – it’s a great opportunity for families to meet, siblings of children with autism to get to know other kids, and anyone to enjoy a movie in a climate of acceptance and understanding.
What is a sensitive Santa?
A Sensitive Friendly Santa is an event for children and youth on the Autism Spectrum and/or have a sensory processing disorder to enjoy a visit with Santa in an environment designed for their comfort. Natural lighting, low noise, and appointed blocks of time to minimize the need for waiting. This will be a free event where families can take pictures with their own phone or camera.
Feel free to share this event. Thank you!