Some kids lined up chairs. Another watched an old 1950’s train docu-series on YouTube called Hobart and Cosmo.

A few played tag. Some did crafts.

One young man had a stack of paper with printed photos of the vintage treasures he wanted. Another young man wore noise canceling headphones the entire time.

A few used speech devices to say…’hi Santa.’ One beautiful girl with red hair used hers to ask for a unicorn.

Some kids sat near Santa. Some led him around by the hand. Others just waved.

Many families worse marching jammies. My youngest son wore a ninja turtle t-shirt and shorts. It was perfect.

A year or so ago, when I realized that our family can’t always do what other families can, I decided to make it happen.

What’s that saying…build it and they will come?

I did it. For us and for them. A Santa who sees kids like my son. Who listens with more than his ears.

So many moms cried tonight. Tears of joy. Because they have never seen their kids with Santa before. Or got a family photo with him. I know we haven’t.

I want my kids to experience all the world has to offer. And that takes a little help. An open space. A special Santa. Friends. Amazing people. And amazing kids.

Next month I hope we go swimming. I’m not sure what’s after that. But we will do something. We will get these families out into the world.

If you are local to minnesota and want to join our group, I’ll put a link in the comments. We’d love to have you.

‘I don’t mean to cry…it’s just taken so many years for us to do something like this. My son needed this. I needed this. Thank you.’

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook.