Easter Bunny makes special stop at Shops at Ithaca Mall

Before hours Sunday in the Shops at Ithaca Mall, the Easter Bunny stopped by early for a special photo session.

The event, Bunny Cares, was a low-stimulation photo session with the Easter Bunny, which made things a little easier and more enjoyable for families of children with sensory, physical and developmental needs.

In the food court Sunday, the lights were a little dimmer, there were no crowds, there was no music or television playing, and the Easter Bunny could even communicate in sign language. Though difficult to get much across with big furry paws, it could at least effectively sign 'Yes' or 'No.'

Bunny Cares, which was a first for Ithaca, is taking place across the country and is a partnership between The Noerr Programs and Ability Path. Their goal is to offer a calm environment with the Easter Bunny for children with special needs. Autism Speaks and Lindt USA also supported the event.

A few families stopped by during the two-hour session, took photos and met the bunny.

Families could register for a time slot beforehand, which helped cut down on lines and crowds. Crowds and lots of noise can be overwhelming for children with special needs, which is why Melissa Marion, of Brooktondale, chose to bring her daughter, Kailey, early on Sunday. She said the environment was wonderful because it was so quiet.

"When it gets crowded, she gets a little frightened because of the echoes," Marion said. But Kailey was all smiles when she sat on the Easter Bunny's lap.

Christy Rutan, of Moravia, was taking photos for The Noerr Programs at the event Sunday. Having the quieter photo session was also important for her personally because she has a son with Down syndrome. Her son and family came to visit and take photos Sunday, too.

"Usually he'll just come in and run away, but with a one-on-one it really helped him get comfortable with the bunny, sat in the bunny's chair," Rutan said.

Stephanie Vann, marketing director for the Shops at Ithaca Mall, received positive response from visitors throughout the morning.

"It's great, and it's been really rewarding to work on," Vann said.

Vann said the shops hope to have the same type of event for Santa Claus' visit next winter.

Follow Kelsey O'Connor on Twitter @ijkoconnor.

Link to Ithaca Journal article http://www.ithacajournal.com/story/news/local/2015/03/29/bunny-cares-event/70630460/