Posts Tagged ‘Down syndrome’
Proprioceptive Sensory System
Proprioception is one of our “hidden” senses but is always communicating with our brain and body. Our proprioceptive receptors are located in our joints and muscles, so every time our body moves or our posture shifts, those receptors talk to our brain! Proprioception helps us understand our bodies, learn new skills, and use our bodies in a coordinated manner. These following terms are very…
Read MoreVolunteer Spotlight: Kailyn
At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, our volunteers bring creativity, passion, and joy to every program—and today we are excited to celebrate Kailyn Butt! Kailyn is full of energy and enthusiasm. She loves crafting, dancing, and trying new things, and she shares her life with her fiancé, Ayden, and their dog, Zoro. Her favorites give a peek into her…
Read MoreVolunteer Spotlight: Allie
At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, our volunteers are the heart of everything we do, and today we are thrilled to shine the spotlight on someone who helps work behind the scenes to raise funds and awareness for GiGi’s Playhouse…Allie Shrake! Allie brings an incredible passion and dedication to our Playhouse community. She has spent 12 years…
Read MoreSensory Processing Challenges
So, what happens if our sensory system is dysregulated? The purpose of our sensory system is to keep us alive. It helps us interact with the environment in a purposeful way. When we think about the ways our bodies modulate, react, or respond to sensory input, we can appropriately respond, or if we have sensory processing challenges,…
Read MoreVolunteer Spotlight: Deann
At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, our volunteers bring heart, energy, and dedication to everything they do—and today, we are thrilled to celebrate Deann Moore! Deann is a retired nurse with 40 years of experience, and even in retirement, she keeps busy working a few hours a week at Chico’s, enjoying a totally different pace of life. She and her husband, Jeff, love…
Read MoreFrom Shy Beginnings to Confident Connections
Three years ago, we shared the story of a shy little girl just beginning her journey at the Playhouse — carefully stepping into a new environment, building trust, and celebrating small but meaningful “Best of All” moments. Today, Hadlie’s story is one of incredible growth, confidence, and connection 💛 Since that blog post was written,…
Read MoreWhat is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing is something we all do, at all times of the day. It’s something that our brain does subconsciously and automatically. It helps us stay alive and function in our day-to-day lives. You may have heard that we have five senses (smell, taste, touch, hearing, and seeing). What most people don’t know is that we have three more sensory systems (proprioceptive, vestibular, and interoceptive) that play…
Read MoreWillow’s Incredible Willpower
At 14 months old, Willow is already showing incredible determination as she works toward meaningful developmental milestones through our Occupational Therapy program in partnership with Stark State College. One of Willow’s greatest strengths is her engagement—she makes beautiful eye contact and is deeply connected to the people around her. This strong social connection helps her…
Read MoreA Family Affair: The Braham Family’s Heart for GiGi’s Playhouse
At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, we often say that community is what makes our mission come alive, but every so often, a family comes along that embodies that truth in the most beautiful way. The Braham family is one of those families. Through volunteering, participation, and genuine care for others, Ashley, Michael, and Sean each play…
Read MoreNew Accessible Entryways at GiGi’s Playhouse Canton
We’re excited to share an important update that makes our Playhouse even more welcoming and accessible for every individual and family we serve — we have new accessible entryways! Accessibility is part of our commitment to creating a space where individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and our community feel confident, supported, and included from…
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