October 9th- Casey and Sammy

“Hi, my name is Sammy. I have Down syndrome, but that’s just one small part of who I am. Don’t worry having Down syndrome isn’t scary, in fact it’s the complete opposite. Keep reading and you’ll see why!

I am 5 years old and started Kindergarten this year at a pretty cool school. I don’t go to the same school as my older sister, who happens to be my best friend, but she watches me get on the bus every morning and is there when I get home! Currently I’m working on writing, tracing letters, recognizing letters, and so much more. I get to spend my day in both the GenEd classroom for calendar, specials and lunch; and Instructional classroom for reading; math and is also where I receive Speech, Physical and Occupational therapy. I’m pretty tired at the end of the day, but I do love school and I get to see my friends everyday!

Outside of school I love riding my bike and playing outside with my brother, sisters and friends. I like to take advantage of being the “big sister” and sometimes torment my baby sister. Don’t worry, she can hold her own I learned. In the mornings you will usually catch me watching my favorite show SPIRIT. I love horses and like to pretend I’m the characters on the show ALL DAY LONG! I also like playing with barbies and my babies. You can usually catch my mom, brother, sisters and I singing at the top of our lungs in the car to the Aladdin soundtrack. You may want earbuds because we are all horrible, but we have fun. I’m a big “Daddy’s Girl”. My daddy gives the best shoulder rides and makes me laugh all the time. My siblings and I also like to tackle him to the ground.

I’m pretty happy most of the time, but I have hard days too. I’m really sensitive and my feelings do get hurt easily. I’m trying to learn how to control my outbursts, but sometimes it’s really hard. I also don’t like loud noises, but who does!?! The best part about when I’m feeling down is that my big sister is there to cheer me up!!! She’s the best!

We’re all different and that’s ok. That’s what makes this world so interesting. Don’t be afraid to come talk to me because I am so much fun to be around and I will make your day a little brighter. My parents say I made the world a better place the minute I came into it!”

– Sammy, daughter to Casey

You can see Sammy at literacy tutoring, Destination Discovery, Dance and many other programs at GiGi’s Playhouse Fox Valley!