
#GiGi’sGoesGlobal
This week, our Special Events Manager here at GiGi's Playhouse Inc., Sarah Rickaby, was in Disney World with her family. On their last day in Hollywood Studios, her kids, Jacob and Leanna, wore their neon green GiGi's 5K t-shirts to really stand out in the crowd. While waiting in line...

Disco motivation…
During this morning's disco fitness with Farzin in GiGi U, I walked past the gym during their cool-down exercises and heard Farzin say, "Now close your eyes and imagine your happy life. Take a deep breath. Now open your eyes and go out and get it for yourself!" When I...

GiGi’s Day at your Chicago Mustangs!
We are so proud of the newest Chicago Mustangs team member, Brian Rogala! Come out to GiGi's Day on Sunday, February 15th at 2:30pm at the Sears Centre to watch Brian, and the rest of our participants, in action! Tickets can be purchased at www.searscentre.com using the code gigi. Or, stop...

Melissa’s Miracle
My pregnancy with Peter was a little difficult. We found out we were four weeks pregnant and we were over joyed. We had been married for three months and we were already one month pregnant. At six weeks pregnant I started to bleed. I went to the doctors and was told...

A GIRL’S BIRTHDAY WISH
"October is Down Syndrome Awareness month and I'd like to share a story of friendship,love, and support between two very special girls who are BFF's. My daughter Faith, is a fun loving, happy, sassy, energetic 9 year old, who happens to have Down Syndrome. Her best friend is Courtney, who...

It Takes a Village
The following post is written by Lizette Vasquez, proud mom to 2 and a half year-old Lucas. Lizette and her husband Carlos are very active at GiGi's Playhouse National Achievement Center. They attend LMNOP (Language, Music N' Our Peeps!) and Open Play every week with Lucas. Visit Lizette's blog, Life...

Overcoming the Obstacles
Kaytlin was born on February 11, 2012. We did not have a pre-diagnosis of Down syndrome. Shortly after she was born, she was placed in the NICU because her oxygen levels were low. I will never forget this night for as long as I live. The neonatologist bust through...

James’ Bond
"See the way his eyes are?.... See the way his nose is?.... These are signs of Down syndrome." I still remember the way my doctor "broke the news." So matter-of-fact.... So nonchalant. My first reaction was "Awww, that's too bad." Then, of course, I cried. I guess everyone does. I...

Seeing is Believing
"Seeing is believing". This is a phrase I often use to describe my journey with my daughter. When she was little, people would tell me she was going to sit up, walk, talk, feed herself, dress herself and play like other kids. I hear them, but I still kept wondering......

New Year’s at Noon Party
Don't Forget to stop by for our New Year's at Noon party on Monday, December 31st from 11am-1pm. Pizza, craft, and balloon drop at Noon. Don't miss out! Can't wait to see you there.

Literacy and Math Registration Due December 10th!
Registration for Math and Literacy is under way here at Hoffman Estates! If you did not receive a form in the mail, please give Ashley a call at or stop by as we have extras ready to go! The program is offered to individuals age 3 and up. If you...

Help Celebrate Our 9th Anniversary – GiGifest 2012!!!
Join us for pony rides, face painting, pumpkin decorating, games, sports clinics, an obstacle course, a bouncy house, and much more!!! Our 2013 Calendar Kids will be introduced and will walk the red carpet!! Join us this Sunday, October 7th from Noon - 3:00 for all the FUN!!! There is...