How GiGi’s Playhouse Plays an Important Role in the Inclusion Process

Blog author Carol (right) with husband Mitch and daughter Caryn at the 2019 gala.

by Carol Croll

Inclusion. It’s the buzzword that parents of children who have Down syndrome begin hearing as soon as their new baby is born. Most people think of inclusion as “just a school thing.” However, inclusion is everywhere! It takes place at family gatherings, community events, jobs, religious organizations, amusement parks, supermarkets, and any place outside of your home where people gather. In its simplest form, inclusion means that all people, regardless of their abilities or needs, have the right to be part of the same group as their peers.

Successful inclusion has many components. It consists of academic learning, behavior, problem solving, attention, cooperation, social skills and more. At GiGi’s Playhouse, programs are designed to build your child’s skills and confidence in ALL of these areas. As your child grows, the programs available at GiGi’s will encourage their strengths and address their weaknesses.  If your child can benefit from one-on-one literacy and math tutoring, speech therapy, socialization, fitness programs, peer modeling, life skills, or even just play time in a cheerful atmosphere, GiGi’s has got you covered.  For the older teens and adults, life skills are so important.  GiGi’s makes it fun to learn how to plan a meal, make a shopping list, and even cook, for example.  There are many social programs for the teens and adults as well.

Caryn with Noah while volunteering in one of the programs for younger participants.

GiGi’s simultaneously provides parents with support! With a simple phone call, Liz, the site manager, will listen to your needs and offer to connect you with other families in the GiGi’s community. Parents appreciate having opportunities to socialize with other parents. It’s helpful to share experiences, and good friendships often begin this way. You can find out about doctors, hospitals, schools, therapists, social service agencies and so much more. This kind of community access is a very important step in the inclusion process.

Caryn demonstrating her musical talents during Fantastic Friends.

GiGi’s is an important part of a creative and effective network of tools and supports.  It helps build the bridge to inclusion for our children throughout their lifetimes!

Want to show your acceptance for others? Join the GiGiFit Acceptance Challenge MOVEment on Saturday, June 5!