A special Santa for special kids

Almost 20 years ago, Rich Rosenberg, then owner of Elmhurst Camera, noticed that families who had children with special needs weren't in the lines to visit Santa at the mall. He began to realize that this rite of passage might be out of reach for these kids.

So he decided to host an event for families of children with special needs to visit Santa and have the iconic photo of the visit that other families take for granted. The first year, in 1990, about 20 families attended. Last year's Special Kids Day numbered about 400 families.

The goal of the Special Kids Day is to provide a place where children with special needs and their families can feel comfortable. The program has been expanded to include a summer carnival, just for families with children with special needs, and a day at Brookfield Zoo.

"We try to make events for people who would otherwise not be able to go because of obstacles. Some families said their kids have never been to a carnival before," says Jennifer Rosenberg, board member and daughter-in-law to Rich.

The goal for the holiday event is to make sure every family leaves with a photograph. "This is a more relaxed atmosphere," says Rosenberg. "If you need to take one picture or 10 to get it right for your child and your family, we'll do that."

And in spite of the fact that it's called Special Kids Day, the event is open to all. "We do get some adults who are kids in their mentality and that's fine. They're kids to us," says Rosenberg. The free program serves every disability, from mild autism to severe cerebral palsy to hearing impaired.

In addition to visiting Santa, families can enjoy face painters, ability-appropriate crafts and treats. Siblings are welcome to participate as well. Registration isn't necessary and there's handicap parking nearby.

Liz DeCarlo is the senior editor at Chicago Parent.

See more of Liz's stories here.

Contact Liz at ldecarlo@chicagoparent.com.