The special needs children in Covington County got a special treat when the Kiwanis Club of Andalusia opened up the county fair just for them to enjoy on Tuesday morning.

“It’s just such a good day for the kids to do some different things that they might not get to do often,” Andalusia Elementary School Psychometrist Lindsey Cross said. “The kids have such a good time at the fair and we look forward to it each year.”

Parents of the children also said what a great day it was at the fair.

“It’s so wonderful,” Lynn Castleberry said. “It’s less crowded out here and there are no lines. That’s big help when you have an autistic child. It’s also less likely today that he will wonder off and get lost.”

Cross said the children love riding the rides at the fair.

“Their favorite part is riding the rides,” Cross said. “They are out here just enjoying the rides and the time with their friends and family. For some, this may be the only time they get this kind of experience.”

Kiwanis Club member Kaci Perry said that the event is very special to the club.

“Our mission is that children are priority one,” Perry said. “We just want to give these children the opportunity to enjoy the fair. They can ride as many rides as they want to and still be able to get the one-on-one care that they need.”

Giving the kids the opportunity to enjoy the fair atmosphere was something that drove the day.

“So many of these kids wouldn’t have the opportunity to come out here if it wasn’t for this day,” Lisa Walker of Straughn High School and Middle School said. “It’s a slower pace and there isn’t as much of a crowd. That’s a big thing because some of these kids don’t do as well in crowds or having to wait in lines. This gives them the freedom to ride as much as they want and to really enjoy it.”

On Thursday, the Kiwanis Club will host a similar day for the special needs adults of Covington County. Both events are sponsored by Andalusia Health.