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Sensory-friendly winter wonderland

The first year for this event was held at Mohegan Pennsylvania in Plains Township.

LUZERNE COUNTY, Pa. — Whether it's meeting Santa, listening to a storybook, or just playing, all children like to do things at their own pace and on their own terms.

That's especially true for children here at this Winter Wonderland event in Mohegan Pennsylvania.

"We really wanted to put something together for the kids that have intellectual disabilities so they can come and have that safe space," said Ashley Williams with Luzerne/Wyoming County Early Intervention.

The event was capped at a certain number of attendees and spread out to cater to sensory needs.

"There is no time frame for when they have to be here or when they have to leave. If somebody needs an hour, or three, to get the courage to go see Santa, we offer that at this event," said Lindsay Dragon with Parenting Autism United.

The majority of attendees to this event came with school groups. A lot of them were carrying plastic bags that were filled not only with candy and toys but also with resources for them to take home to their parents.

"I see that there's a lot of resources, many programs, all around if you look there's all these programs and apps to help these kids and better their world, better their understanding," said volunteer Kasra Paknezchad. 

"We hope to make this an annual event. It filled up in under 48 hours, and we would love to do it on a larger scale," added Dragon.

Organizers say they will look to attendees for feedback on this year's event... and use it when planning again for next year.

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