NJ Malls, Autism Speaks Team Up For 'Santa Cares'

NEW JERSEY – Malls across New Jersey are offering kids with disabilities a chance to visit with Santa Claus in a calmer setting this holiday season.

Several popular shopping centers have teamed up with Autism Speaks on "Santa Cares," an event that features dimmed lights and music set to a lower volume, along with a Santa specially trained to take cues from parents on interacting with children who have special needs.

Participating malls include: Willowbrook Mall, Paramus Park, Monmouth Mall, Woodbridge Center, Bridgewater Commons, The Mall at Short Hills, Ocean County Mall, Cherry Hill Mall, Menlo Park Mall and Freehold Raceway Mall.

Depending on location, events are scheduled for Nov. 23, Nov. 24, Dec. 1 or Dec. 8.

Click here for more information on locations and dates.

Families with special needs children are invited to meet and have their photo taken with the man in the red suit in a sensory-friendly environment.

According to Autism Speaks, the event is geared towards children and adults with special needs and abilities who would like additional assistance, extra time or a quieter, less stressful environment in which to visit with Santa. Professional photography is available, with a selection of packages.

More than 700 sensory-friendly Santa events are planned at 580 malls across the country this holiday season, according to DisabilityScoop.com.