Sometimes, something as simple as a smile can be the best holiday present ever.
Ear-to-ear smiles were common as children with disabilities and their families were able to visit Santa Claus without having to face the daunting task of standing in long lines at the mall.
More than 50 families attended the ‘WinterPalooza’ put on Wednesday by the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency’s (HHSA) California Children Services (CCS) unit in Chula Vista. There were yarn snowball fights, cookie decorating stations and the opportunity for children to make their wish list pitch to Santa.
“It’s really good for the parents,” said Chris Chung, a CCS supervising therapist. “It can be very difficult to stand in line and visit Santa if your child is in a wheelchair.
“It’s a nice, friendly and safe atmosphere. We understand the kids’ needs.”
The HHSA CCS Medical Therapy Program provides occupational and physical therapy for children with conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy and spinal cord injuries.
The activities allowed the children to use therapeutic fine motor skills and work on balance and mobility.
“It was both fun and therapeutic,” said Chang.
