UPDATE: Noah’s Ark in West Nowra has just transformed into a breathtaking Christmas wonderland, welcoming families and children with open arms. This festive spectacle, unveiled on December 1, features a dazzling array of decorations designed to create a magical experience for all.
Parents and children are stepping into a vibrant holiday atmosphere, complete with a North Pole directional sign pointing to Santa’s workshop, Candy Cane Lane, and Elf Village. The reception area is nearly overflowing with festive decorations, including two large gingerbread houses, a towering Christmas tree, and a colorful array of balloons and inflatable candy canes.
Lisa Courtney, the Shoalhaven area coordinator, dedicated two days to this transformation, ensuring that every element was in place to greet the children arriving for their therapy sessions and early learning classes. “The kids just find it so magical, and it’s really special to see,” said Ms. Courtney, who has been decorating the centre for various occasions for the past four to five years.
For children with special needs, the holiday season can be particularly challenging. Ms. Courtney has introduced a quiet area for sensitive Santa photographs, offering a calm environment for those who struggle with the bustling atmosphere of shopping centres. “Shopping centres can be very overwhelming for some children,” she explained. “Here, it’s nice and quiet for them.”
One family, a single mother with four children who all have additional needs, recently visited the centre. “She was so thankful for the Santa photos,” Ms. Courtney said, emphasizing the emotional impact of this initiative. “It makes all of this time worth it, it really does.”
The gingerbread houses, crafted from spray-painted cubby houses and adorned with foam icing, are just one example of Ms. Courtney’s creative spirit. Last year, she and her partner constructed an igloo from milk bottles, showcasing their commitment to bringing unique experiences to the centre.
“The parents have been incredible; they love it,” Ms. Courtney noted. Children are excitedly entering the gingerbread houses and taking photographs on the Santa chair every morning, creating lasting memories in a supportive environment.
As the term draws to a close, every child from the early learning centre will leave with one of the festive balloons decorating the reception area. Ms. Courtney aims to provide something new and different for each occasion, making this Christmas celebration truly special.
This heartwarming initiative at Noah’s Ark is not just about decorations; it’s about creating a safe, joyful space for children and families during the holiday season. With the magic of Christmas now alive at the centre, the community is invited to share in this delightful experience that fosters joy and inclusivity.
