Social Change
321 Days of Acceptance | Week One
We are now a week into 321 Days of Acceptance and we are thrilled to have so many of you taking action to help GiGi’s Playhouse to spread the message of acceptance and belief! Let’s recap the amazing individuals from week one! We kicked off Day one with the inspiration who stared it all. GiGi…
Read MoreOh what a night! | 2017 Chicagoland Gala
INDIVIDUALS WITH DOWN SYNDROME SHINE WITH THE STARS AT GIGI’S PLAYHOUSE 2017 “I HAVE A VOICE” GALA: 850 BELIEVERS BREAKING RECORDS TO CHANGE THE WORLD AND GROW ACCEPTANCE FOR ALL Joined by Mario Lopez of Extra TV, Rob Johnson of CBS 2 News Chicago, the NFL Retired Players Association – Chicago Chapter, 7th Heaven…
Read More#tuesdaytips | Draft Reports, IEP
REQUESTING DRAFT REPORTS PRIOR TO YOUR CHILD’S IEP MEETING It is best practice to keep ongoing communication with your child’s teacher(s) and therapists about his or her progress. This is especially important in the weeks leading up to the IEP meeting. This is also a great opportunity to share your thoughts and ideas for what…
Read MoreLabels | We have some ideas.
This post was originally shared on October 20, 2015 by our friends at GiGi’s Playhouse Syracuse but we think labels are a topic worth revisiting. Label – a short word or phrase descriptive of a person, group, intellectual movement, etc. It seems the human race loves labels, unfortunately there are just to many ugly labels…
Read MoreThe GiGi’s Impact | GiGi’s Playhouse Mexico
We had a MAGICAL visit to Queretaro! It is overflowing with spirit and love. John & Mary are amazing supporters of GiGi’s Playhouse Mexico and they recently just went for a visit. We are so proud of the much needed life changing work that is happening in Queretaro, Mexico and we could not be more…
Read More#tuesdaytips | Talking about special needs with your kids.
Topic: “How can I respond when my child points out a child with special needs?” Today we are welcoming mom & volunteer, Jaclyn, from our friends at GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee to answer this question. We love her answer and tips. Read & Share! “Great question! I think there are many different ways a parent…
Read MoreAcceptance in Action: GiGi’s Playhouse 2016 National Conference
Taking action and changing the world together! November 4th & 5th GiGi’s Playhouse welcomed 250 team members representing 39 Playhouses and start-up groups, as well as representatives from more than 15 corporate sponsors and partners, and even board members of local community foundations; together for the “Bigger, Better Stronger Together” Leadership Conference in Schaumburg, IL.…
Read MoreWe do not stop here…
October, Down Syndrome Acceptance Month, is done but we do not stop here! It has been wonderful to look out at Playhouse’s across the nation and Mexico share facts, bust myths and inspire their communities on the truth Down syndrome. This quote form a Playhouse family has us all smiling very proud smiles! “My eyes…
Read Moredoctor visits and birthday cakes
Who looks forward to a doctor’s appointment? Marilee, our grandson Louis and I cautiously crossed over 2nd Avenue in Manhattan during rush hour. I was preoccupied with the total confusion. Not so Louis. He was excited about his upcoming birthday, spouting a long list of details. As if that weren’t thrilling enough, today he was…
Read MoreAcceptance is more than Awareness.
October 1 begins Down syndrome “Awareness” Month but awareness is not nearly enough. Awareness is simply acknowledging an existence, a challenge, etc. Human beings are so more than an existence or a challenge. Acceptance is an ACTION and a commitment to extend consistent value, approval, and empowerment. I’m very fortunate to work at GiGi’s Playhouse Down…
Read More