GiGi’s Playhouse Speaks Out
At GiGi's Playhouse, we tend to focus on the positives. We spend most of our time celebrating achievements, building acceptance, and changing the way the world views Down syndrome. But when misinformation spreads and harmful assumptions about individuals with Down syndrome are amplified to millions of people, silence is not...
She was searching for answers. She found a community.
It wasn’t a doctor’s call that told Madisen her daughter might have Down syndrome; it was a text tied to a gender reveal. At around 12 weeks pregnant, Madisen had completed Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) at her OB-GYN’s recommendation. When the results came in, they weren’t directly communicated to her. Instead, her sister came across them while reviewing paperwork...
Early Intervention for Down Syndrome: Therapies & Support | GiGi’s Playhouse
Introduction: Why Early Intervention Matters for Down Syndrome Crawling. Sitting. Walking. Talking. The first few years of life are crucial for all children. They’re not only full of milestones, but children also go through significant developmental changes. For children with Down syndrome, early life can look a little different. Many...
My Adidas: How Footwear Supports Movement for Individuals with Down Syndrome
It’s got to be the shoes. For years, we’ve been told that when it comes to athletic performance, shoes matter. They can make us run faster, jump higher, and just play better. But let’s be honest: most of this is marketing. Deep down, we all know that (unfortunately) the latest pair of running shoes won’t turn us into a world champion marathon runner. Still, for some, shoes are more...
Life with Down Syndrome: What to Expect at Every Age
Understanding Life with Down Syndrome Across Every Stage "When will they take their first steps? Say their first words? Make friends? Find their place in the world?" Wondering about your child's future is natural for every parent. We all imagine the milestones and triumphs that make life feel full. For...
Understanding Trisomy 21, Mosaicism, and Translocation
Understanding the Different Types of Down Syndrome When you first receive a Down syndrome diagnosis, it can feel like you need to learn a whole new vocabulary. Medical terms, confusing jargon, and technical language are often thrown your way. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed or experience information overload. That's...
Born to be Heard – Christina and Emmaleigh’s story
Guest post written by Christina, mom to Emmaleigh. See the link at the bottom of the post to submit your story. I often share about our lifelong journey for inclusion and about Emmaleigh’s many accomplishments. What I rarely share is our birth story. I don’t often share it because even...
Common Misconceptions About Down Syndrome
Clearing Up Common Misconceptions About Down Syndrome Let's face it: We're in the information age. More content lies at our fingertips than most of us know what to do with. A simple Google search alone retrieves thousands of results. But where there's so much information available, the lines between fact...
How to Talk to Children About Down Syndrome
Helping Children Understand Down Syndrome Most adults want to talk to children about differences. After all, we all want to raise kids who are inclusive and understanding. But when it comes time to actually explain differences or disabilities, many of us hesitate. Where do we begin? What's the right language?...
Founder of GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix Receives International Award
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Phoenix, AZ — February 11, 2026 — Jennifer Gage, founder of GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix, was honored with the prestigious Legacy Award for 13 years of service by GiGi’s Playhouse International founder Nancy Gianni at the Playhouse’s “Oh, The Places We’ll Go” Gala held January 31 at the Omni Scottsdale. The award recognizes individuals whose leadership, vision, and dedication have...
From Belief to Action: The Phoenix Playhouse’s Journey of Growth
Belief is a powerful thing. But at GiGi’s Playhouse, belief isn’t an abstract concept; belief leads to concrete action. Our Phoenix Playhouse exemplifies this idea. Earlier this month, GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix hosted its “Oh, The Places We’ll Go” Gala. It was a night that celebrated the impact of the Phoenix Playhouse. The night...
Receiving a Down Syndrome Diagnosis: What Parents Should Know
When You Receive a Down Syndrome Diagnosis There are moments in life that stop you in your tracks. Moments that make you question everything you thought you knew about the future, not just for yourself but for your entire family. For many parents, receiving a Down syndrome diagnosis is one...
