SparkJoy ABA hosts Dec. 13 sensory-friendly Santa visit designed for each child

ONTARIO — For many families, holiday traditions don’t require a second thought. For families of children with autism or special needs, they often do — and SparkJoy ABA wants to give them a place where their child feels understood.

Families can join the SparkJoy ABA team at 2291-2293 Village Park Court on Saturday, Dec. 13 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., for a day filled with sensory-friendly play sessions, including a visit from Santa.

A holiday experience designed for sensory-friendly needs

Donnie Gallagher, founder and clinical director of SparkJoy ABA, noted the team will tailor the experience for each child — whether they prefer to observe from afar, sit beside Santa or engage in active play — so it remains positive and pressure-free.

“We know how challenging traditional holiday events can be for many of the families we serve,” Gallagher said. “The team designed these sessions to let children participate comfortably, joyfully and on their own terms.”

SparkJoy ABA will also have behaviorally trained “elves” — Registered Behavior Technicians, who will help during the festivities.

Gallagher noted Santa is trained to meet each child where they are, actively honoring their communication style, sensory needs, and pace.

“Our behaviorally trained RBT ‘elves’ will be present to support each child individually,” Gallagher added. “With visual supports, gentle guidance and a Santa who meets children exactly where they are, families can feel confident their child’s needs will be understood and honored.”

Families can also enjoy their magical moments captured by a photographer who will be there to take photos in a supportive environment.

Registration and event details

Due to limited availability to ensure a calm, individualized and welcoming environment, registration for the event will close on Dec. 10, or earlier if all spots fill.

Families can register by calling SparkJoy ABA at 419-315-4284. The event is free.

Along with sensory-friendly play sessions, each child attending will receive a gift from Santa.

“We’re especially grateful to Hedstrom, in Ashland, for donating the children’s gifts,” Gallagher said. “Their mission to help kids and families connect, play, imagine and create lasting memories truly enhances the holiday experience we’re proud to offer our community.”

SparkJoy ABA celebrates the holidays in their first building

Celebrating the two-year anniversary, SparkJoy ABA opened its first brick-and-mortar location in August, offering Applied Behavior Analysis therapy.

In previous reporting Gallagher told Richland Source SparkJoy ABA believes every child deserves evidence-based treatment from providers who care as much for their child and family as they do.

The organization serves children from as young as 18 months up to 18 years old, offering a range of services including assessments, functional communication training, social-skills education, adaptive-skills training, behavior consulting, feeding and potty-training supports and parent/caregiver training, among others.