A new interactive Christmas experience has come to intu Braehaead in Glasgow.
Santa’s Cove is packed full of festive activities for youngsters, and will be hosting additional sessions for children living with autism and their families.
The Cove, run by BFK Ventures, has partnered with the National Autistic Society (NAS) and will specially tailor the venue to make it inclusive for the events.
Finbarr O’Toole, director of BFK Ventures chatted to the Sunday Post about the winter wonderland.
Mr O’Toole said his company wanted to give something back to communities.
He said: “We are happy as operators of play centres and kids’ experiences to be in a position to offer something good back to the communities we operate in.”
The director added that he felt like the charity partnership with the NAS was ‘a good fit’ and explained that the organisation had given them information on how to make Santa’s Cove autism friendly.
He said: “Sounds and lights will be turned down, rules around queuing will be relaxed.
“On our Naughty or Nice Machine we can over-ride noise, smoke, lights and vibrations.
“Santa knows to be careful with the kids and not push them, Santa will leave his throne and come down to the kids level.”
The Cove opened on November 11th and Mr O’Toole confirmed the reaction so far had been ‘overwhelmingly positive.’
Activities at the Christmas Cove include hitching a ride on Santa’s sleigh, making reindeer food, crafting Christmas tree decorations, tucking into hot chocolate with Mrs Claus and of course, meeting the elves and Santa Claus.
The venue also boasts the ‘Naughty or Nice’ machine, where kids (and adults!) can find out whether they’ve been good all year. The contraption also rewards children with a personalised certificate.
Children can post a letter to Santa at Santa’s Cove, and there will be a competition for the best Christmassy family!
There will also be an opportunity to donate to National Autistic Society, with every donation matched by Santa’s Cove.
Autism Friendly
Autism Friendly sessions will take place on 25 Nov 9-9.45am and 3 Dec 9-9.30am.
Call 0141 280 2803 for more info and to book
Standard Pricing:
Adult £9.95 Child £19.95 Child under 0-11 months FREE
Disabled: £15 and carer free (Disabled Identification Required)
Large group bookings e.g. for schools, should contact the event organisers for special rates.
Book online at www.santascove.co.uk
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