World Down Syndrome Day Proclamation
Proclamation: World Down Syndrome Day WHEREAS, Down syndrome is a genetic disorder affecting one in 700 babies, or approximately 6,000 births per year in the United States; and WHEREAS, Occurring from an individual having a full or partial extra copy of chromosome number 21, Down syndrome is a naturally occurring...
LSVT LOUD – A New Form of Speech Therapy
Join Leigh Cohen, M.S. CCC-SLP and a team of graduate student clinicians from Northwestern University on Friday, March 14th as they provide an in-depth overview of LSVT LOUD for kids. What is LSVT LOUD?Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD) is an evidence-based speech therapy originally designed for adults with Parkinson’s...
Letting Go of Expectations: A Heartwarming Cookie Decorating Experience with Ellis
A couple years ago Ellis was invited to a holiday cookie decorating party hosted by one of his pre-K classmates. We decked ourselves out in festive holiday gear and were so excited to decorate some cookies, because if you know me, you know that holiday cookies are one of my...
Mason’s Heart Surgery Experience: Overcoming Challenges on His Own Schedule
One of Mason's first visits to the Deerfield Playhouse The phrase "timing is everything" is one that every parent of a medically complex child knows too well. When it comes to medical decisions, timing is everything. But sometimes, it feels like you’re rushing to do everything while sitting around waiting....
Why Your Support Matters: Celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Month Together
Celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Month with GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield October is a month of awareness, advocacy, and celebration for individuals with Down syndrome, and there’s no better way to honor this important time than by highlighting our incredible community. As we recognize Down Syndrome Awareness Month, let’s dive into how...
Top 3 Inspiring Fall Volunteer Opportunities to Embrace This Season
This fall, dedicating time to volunteering for Down Syndrome Awareness Month can be both impactful and fulfilling. By committing your time and energy, you play a crucial role in advocating for a world where everyone is valued and accepted. We are lucky to have a busy fall shouting the worth...
#BestofAll and Exciting August Programs
July was another fabulous month at the Playhouse as we watched participants come and give their #BestofAll during programming! Please keep in mind as you read below, our summer programming and summer schedule will be wrapping up mid-August as we prep for back to school. Sign-ups for our enrollment-based programs...
Meet Dawn – A New Face at GiGi’s
Every GiGi's Playhouse is filled with an incredible team of volunteers each bringing their unique skills and passion to continue equipping all the GiGi's participants to ACHIEVE! Today, let's meet Dawn! “Let’s jump up and down to warm up!” “Now follow me through the obstacle course!” Hmm, you might be...
#Bestofall June and Upcoming July Programs
June was a great month as we watched participants come and give their Best of All during programming! We can't wait to see what July brings us, be sure to read to the bottom to not only help celebrate our friends but see what exciting things are happening at GiGi’s...
Dancing with Joy: An interview with Katie, our Dance program lead
Katie Showing the Dance Class a Tik Tok Dance before they learn it Why did you decide to volunteer at GiGi's Playhouse? I was part of the Scout Buddies program and integrated wellness at Lake Forest High school and absolutely loved it. I knew a few people who volunteered at...
My Journey to GiGi’s Playhouse
Serving others has always been a passion of mine. I think that’s how I ended up in the field of Early Childhood Special Education, and most recently, GiGi’s Playhouse. I remember vividly riding my bike at age 10 to a non-profit in my small town that supported childhood cancer. I...
What Has 2023 Meant to Us?
The GiGi’s vision has always been to see a world where individuals with Down syndrome are accepted and embraced in their families, schools, and community. We are so grateful for the incredible relationships we have built in our community this year. Through the support of a strong and inclusive environment,...