Cherry Hill Mall's Superhero Day Kicks Off Autism Awareness Month

CHERRY HILL, NJ — The Cherry Hill Mall and Centria Autism Services are teaming up to present multiple sensory-friendly events for families of all abilities, including those with autism throughout Autism Awareness Month.

It all starts with Superhero Saturday, which will take place in Cherry Hill Mall’s Grand Court on April 28, noon to 3 p.m. During the event, kids will be able to test their superpowers at a Superhero Training Station, make their own superhero masks, solve puzzles, play games, and meet a few of their favorite superheroes in person.

To accommodate children with autism and other special needs, Centria Autism will be sponsoring a “Centria Sensory Room” at the event. This room is designed to serve as a quiet space for children who would like to take a break from the louder and more crowded activities of the day. Calming and sensory-friendly toys and activities will be available in the Centria Sensory Room, and the lights will be dimmed.

“We created the Centria Sensory Room for families with children on the autism spectrum so that they can come and enjoy the event without having to feel overwhelmed,” Centria Healthcare Sales and Marketing Director Matt Blouin said. “We also want to focus on how we as a community can come together to create a sense of inclusion and awareness surrounding autism.”

Activities will include:

• Meet Wonder Woman, Batman, and Spiderman
• Create Your Secret Identity - Make a Superhero Mask
• Superhero Training Station
• Superhero Train the Brain Station
• Real Life Heroes Celebration
• Be a Hero- Alex Lemonade Stand
• Superhero themed prizes/giveaways for the kids - while supplies last
• A caricature artist will render guests as their favorite Avenger.
• DJs playing music
• Alex’s Lemonade Stand hosted by students from Haddon Heights High School Garnet and Gold Society

Cherry Hill police and fire departments will be on hand with a fire truck, police cruiser, ambulance, and emergency response team members who fight fires, protect the community and save lives on a daily basis. Kids will have the chance to ask questions and to connect with them.

Cherry Hill Mayor Chuck Cahn has proclaimed April 28 to be Superhero Day in Cherry Hill, and urges all residents to join in supporting and acknowledging the dedication and contributions superheroes make every day.

“Who doesn’t daydream about having X-ray vision, being able to fly or tapping into a super-human strength,” Senior Marketing Director Lisa Wolstromer said. “We’re dedicating an entire day to exploring what it means to be a superhero. “We’ve planned a series of super-fun events and activities for kids to test their superpowers, make a craft, meet their favorite heroes and more. We are very excited to partner with Centria Autism Services to create a family, friendly event inclusive for all families to enjoy.”

The event, which is free and open to the public, is sponsored by Centria Autism Services but requires reservations https://chmsuperheroday.eventbrite.com. Members of the mall’s rewards program, PREIT Perks, will be able to use their superpowers to access face painting during Superhero Saturday. To sign up for PREIT Perks, find a kiosk in MALL or visit cherryhillmall.com/PREITPERKS.

The Cherry Hill Mall is located at 2000 Route 38, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002.

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