CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – As the countdown for Christmas continues, the age-old tradition for children to meet with Santa and tell him what they want for Christmas begins again.

Unfortunately, the hustle and bustle of malls can be overwhelming and difficult for some children who are on the autism spectrum, have sensory issues or have other special needs, and often these kids miss out on this holiday tradition. That’s why Governor’s Square Mall is teaming up with Old Saint Nick to provide a Sensitive Santa event this weekend.

The Santa visit will be calmed with lower lighting, less noise and shorter lines to alleviate stress.

Thomas Locke, marketing director for Governor’s Square Mall, said that sensory time with Santa has seen a large increase over the years, as oftentimes these people are not thought of since they don’t like being in the public during the holiday rush. Locke, who has personal ties to this issue, said these children often aren’t represented, but “Sensitive Santa” allows them to be in a calmer and more controlled environment.

“Our Santa is really big on this; it’s his bread and butter,” Locke said. “He’s been doing this for several years.”

Santa, who preferred not to go by any other name, has been with the mall for the last few years since the idea was conceptualized. After the first Sensitive Santa event, the people around him saw the passion he had, and he was given the opportunity to help accommodate special needs children during this event ever since.

“I have a big heart for kids with disabilities and handicaps, and when I had the opportunity here at the mall to do it, I jumped at it,” Santa said. “It’s been like unwrapping Christmas presents, seeing the look on their faces, the joy in their eyes.”

The mall will open an hour early, at 10 a.m., on Sunday, Dec. 11, just or the Sensitive Santa event. Access to the mall for this event can be found on the back side entrance beside Old Navy.  Santa and Mrs. Claus will be present from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Sitting on Santa’s lap is optional: Visitors may sit, stand or just be close to Santa. Pictures with Santa will be available for purchase.

Other Santa events

Regular Santa visiting hours are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sunday at Governor’s Square Mall, 2801 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., and there is another special Santa event planned soon: Pets with Santa, on Monday, Dec. 12, from 5-7 p.m.

For more, go to the Governor’s Square Mall website or call 931-552-0289, ext. 102.