Summer Programming Announcement

We are thrilled to announce our Summer Programming!  
Did you know this summer at GiGi’s Playhouse we are offering new programs for various age groups?
You can check it out online and register for programs by Clicking Here or by visiting gigisplayhouse.org/desmoines/programs-summer!

GiGi Prep – GiGi Prep is a 6 week learning program for adults with Down syndrome who are 18 and up. The program meets every Wednesday from June 10 to July 15 from 9:00am to 1:00 pm. Each week at GiGi Prep students work towards achieving goals in Communication, Fitness, and Nutrition, all while giving their “Best Of All”. GiGi Prep prepares adults for our GiGi University Program which will take place in the Fall and Spring. Graduation will take place Wednesday, July 15 at noon. Registration is REQUIRED and the 6 week commitment is needed.
Yoga Tales – Yoga Tales is a fun and interactive yoga class that promotes self-confidence and self-esteem through stories and sounds.  Tuesdays from 11am to 12pm June 9th – July 28^th. Each class explores a new book, which invites learners and yogis alike to strike a pose and stretch along to the story. Students will strengthen their muscles and reading comprehension. Yoga Tales encourages movement while enhancing flexibility, strength, coordination, and body awareness. Yoga Tales also aims to improve concentration and sense of calmness and relaxation. You can sign your child up for one, a couple, or all sessions, and siblings are welcome too!
Backpack Buddies – Backpack Buddies is a group literacy and math program for all children & teens at or below a second grade reading level. There will be 8 sessions, and you can sign up for one, a couple, or all of them! Each session we will explore two books, a craft, and therapeutic play. Participants will learn, practice turn taking, build confidence and friendships, and of course have fun! Backpack Buddies is taught by an amazing licensed teacher- Mrs. Harriet! Backpack Buddies will meet on Tuesdays from June 9-July 28 from 10 – 11am. Each session will be made up of two 25 minute learning sessions and a 10 minute snack and play break in between.
Circles Social Boundaries “Strangers” – The Social Boundaries Program is designed for individuals with a disability and their parent or guardian to help realize that it is acceptable to hug a family member but not acceptable to hug the mailman. A participant must be of the age to understand strangers and family members (recommended minimum age is 6 years old). This session will meet on June 11th, 18th, and 25th from 6 to 8 pm, and participation at all 3 classes is required. If registration is full you can be placed on the wait list, please email:programsdesmoines@gigisplayhouse.org. Registrants are asked to please bring with them photos of family members and neighbors. Parents and Guardians must attend and interact with the class.
Circles Social Boundaries “Relationships” – The Social Boundaries Program is designed for individuals with a disability and their parent or guardian to help guide through social boundaries and awareness in relationships. This program will be focusing on relationships, and a participant must be of the age to understand relationships, social boundaries, personal space (recommended minimum age is 14 years old). This session will meet July 16th, 23rd, and 30th from 6 to 8pm. Parents and Guardians must attend and interact with the class. Registration is required and limited. If registration is full you can be placed on the wait list, please email:programsdesmoines@gigisplayhouse.org.
Drama Troupe – Drama Troupe is a 10 week program for individuals with Down syndrome who are between the ages of 13-21. The program meets on Tuesdays from June 9 to August 11 from 1:00 to 2:30 pm with an ending presentation on August 13 at 6pm. Class size is limited to 12-14 participants this summer, so registration is required. Acting Coaches Annie M and Joe P from Adventures in Social Drama will be teaching this program through constructed Role-play Theatre Analysis (RTA)! The goal of Drama Troupe using RTA is to establish healthy, meaningful relationships and achieve higher goals using dramatic play as a catalyst for building a community wherein participants are free to express thoughts and feelings concerning their perceptions of life and life’s challenges!
Friends, Fun, & Fitness – Our friends get together each week for physical activity! Our group of Friends is growing, and we want you to join us! This group is offered for individuals with Down syndrome ages 11-21 and their siblings! Space is limited, so sign up is required. We hope to see you this summer!
Cooking Club – Let’s get cooking with friends at GiGi’s! This program is geared toward building safety awareness in the kitchen and preparing healthy recipes that also taste great. This program is open to individuals with Down syndrome ages 11- 21! You can attend one, a couple, or all classes! Class size is limited to 10 participants, so sign up today!
Art Explosion for Adults 18+ – Art Explosion provides hands on experience with multiple art media and provides an outlet for individuals with Down syndrome to express themselves, build confidence and socialize with peers. Join us at GiGi’s on Saturday, June 6th from 10-11:30 am for Art Explosion for adults ages 18 & older! At the June session, participants will have fun with friends making cork coasters! Space is limited to 10 students, so be sure to sign-up today!

You can check it out online and register for programs by Clicking Here or by visiting gigisplayhouse.org/desmoines/programs-summer!