Southridge Holding Easter Bunny Event For Kids with Special Needs

Southridge Mall will hold a Caring Bunny™ special event dedicated to families that have children with special needs.

Caring Bunny is for families that have children with special needs. It provides a subdued environment for those who wish to visit this year’s Bunny Photo Experience.

The event will take place on Sun., March 24, from 9-10:30 a.m.. 

Caring Bunny has been developed by Simon Property Group, Inc., owners of the mall, and is guided by AbilityPath.org, a national online resource hub and special needs community. 

Southridge is one of 70 Simon malls hosting this event. 

Many steps are taken to reduce sensory triggers, creating a more comforting environment for the children’s magical visit with the Bunny. This environment is likely to include (specific elements or aesthetics may vary):

• Turning off in-mall music, stopping escalators located near the Bunny set, dimming the lights, and shutting down fountains for the duration of the event.

• Eliminating queue lines through the use of a numbering system whereby guests approach the set when their number is called.

• Special activities and stories geared toward the needs of the child during the ‘wait’ period to help the child understand what activities will occur during the visit.

“We are thrilled to be the venue for this incredible event,” said Cheryl Rouse, director of mall marketing at Southridge Mall. “The Caring Bunny program brings a lot of joy to children with special needs and to see that happen at our mall is truly an honor.”

This will be the third year for the Caring Bunny program at many Simon malls.

“Last year, we saw families who received a Bunny photo with their child for the very first time,” said Sheryl Young, CEO of AbilityPath.org, in a release. “We are fortunate to have terrific alliances with Simon and their photo operators who have worked with us to lessen potential triggers, like having the event occur during private mall hours and other slight adjustments that help provide a calmer sensory-friendly environment for all children to enjoy.”

The presenting sponsor for the 2013 Bunny Photo Experience is Gymboree. Serving as an associate sponsor this year is Scanimalz, a collectible plush line that brings kids a fun, safe way to enjoy what they love: toys, technology and playing games. 

Participants are encouraged to RSVP for the Caring Bunny event at Southridge Mall by going to www.AbilityPath.org.