Tolu’s Story: Brave Firsts, Growing Confidence, and the Power of Connection

Meet Toluwalope “Tolu” Falegan, a joyful 2-year-old who loves playing in the sandbox, stacking blocks, blowing bubbles, and enjoying music—especially when a guitar is involved! Since joining GiGi’s Playhouse Atlanta, Tolu has been busy exploring, making connections, and reaching milestones in his own time.

Tolu participates in Leaps & Bounds, Music Early Learners, and LMNOP, and each program has played a meaningful role in his development. Mom, Stephanie, says, “What we love about all these programs, is that we are seeing Tolu connecting with other children. As well as exploring new and fun activities that encourage development and creativity! From trying out the swings during Leaps and Bounds, to stomping our feet during Music Early Learners, and sharing snacks in between sessions it’s been such a joy see how he’s grown!”

From the very beginning, one of the things Tolu’s family has cherished most is the warm, welcoming community at GiGi’s Playhouse Atlanta. It’s a place where families feel supported and children feel safe to be themselves—and Tolu has truly made himself at home.

In Leaps & Bounds, volunteer Laara has had a front-row seat to Tolu’s journey. Laara thoughtfully sets up the room to give children the freedom to choose activities that interest them, creating opportunities for learning through experience and peer interaction. When Tolu first started attending, Laara noticed he was cautious and quiet, needing time to warm up and feel comfortable. Slowly and steadily, progress began to shine through.

“Around Thanksgiving,” Laara shares, “I started getting eye contact and an occasional smile during our interactions.” By December, Tolu began noticing his classmates having fun on the slide. With encouragement and the opportunity to learn from his peers, his curiosity grew. Just before the holiday break, Tolu initiated interest in trying the slide himself—comfortably with Mom’s help—and celebrated his very first ride down. A huge accomplishment!

One of Tolu’s most joyful moments also came during Music Early Learners, when he experienced the rainbow parachute for the first time. Sitting underneath it, his eyes grew wide and he smiled from ear to ear as the colors floated above him—a moment filled with wonder and delight.

And then came a moment that Laara describes as her “why.” At the last Leaps & Bounds class before break, while chatting with a new family, Tolu reached out to her. He let her hold him for a long moment and wrapped her in a sweet Tolu hug—an incredible milestone of trust and connection.

“These moments,” Laara says, “are why I volunteer—helping the kiddos reach their goals and receiving the best gift ever.”

Tolu’s story is a powerful reminder that growth happens in many ways: through patience, encouragement, peer support, and loving volunteers who meet each child exactly where they are. At GiGi’s Playhouse Atlanta, every milestone matters—and we celebrate them together.

We’d love to share your story, too. If your family has a moment, memory, or milestone from your time at GiGi’s Playhouse Atlanta, we invite you to share it with us. Your story helps inspire others, celebrate progress, and show the impact of our incredible community. Email your story to Jennifer at [email protected]. We can’t wait to celebrate your journey alongside you!