GiGiFIT Preschoolers: Building Strength and Confidence Through Play
Summer is here, and at GiGi’s Playhouse, we are thrilled to announce that our GiGiFIT Preschoolers program is back in session! This exciting program, designed specifically for preschool-aged children with Down syndrome, promotes motor development and overall wellness through a fun and engaging fitness curriculum.
What is GiGiFIT Preschoolers?
The GiGiFIT curriculum incorporates the following key elements:
GiGiFIT Preschoolers is a comprehensive fitness program tailored to the unique needs of young children with Down syndrome. The program focuses on improving motor skills, balance, coordination, and overall physical fitness through structured play and targeted exercises. Our sessions are designed to be both fun and challenging, ensuring that every child can participate and benefit.
1. Warm-Up Activities: These activities prepare the children for more vigorous exercise and help prevent injuries. They include stretching, gentle movements, and games that get the kids excited and ready to move.
2. Strength and Endurance Exercises: Using a variety of equipment and bodyweight exercises, we work on building muscle strength and endurance. These activities are crucial for helping children develop the physical capabilities needed for daily activities and future sports participation.
3. Balance and Coordination Drills: Balance and coordination are often areas where children with Down syndrome may need extra support. Our drills are designed to be fun and engaging, helping children improve these essential skills in a supportive environment.
4. Cool-Down and Relaxation: Each session ends with cool-down activities that help children relax and stretch their muscles. This part of the program is important for recovery and helps children learn how to calm their bodies after exercise.
The Impact of GiGiFIT Preschoolers
The benefits of the GiGiFIT Preschoolers program extend far beyond physical fitness. Through consistent participation, children gain confidence, improve their social skills, and experience a sense of accomplishment. The supportive and inclusive environment of GiGi’s Playhouse ensures that each child feels valued and celebrated for their unique abilities.
Parents have reported significant improvements in their children’s motor skills, behavior, and overall happiness since joining the program. The structured yet playful approach of GiGiFIT Preschoolers helps children develop a love for physical activity that can last a lifetime.
Our Incredible Volunteers
While the GiGiFIT Preschoolers program is at the heart of what we do, it’s our volunteers who bring it to life. Their dedication, enthusiasm, and compassion create an environment where children can thrive. Let’s meet some of the amazing volunteers who make our program possible:
Cebastien Hyppolite
“My name is Cebastien Hyppolite. I’m a Southern Illinois University graduate currently employed at Wheels Corporation. When I’m not working, I love volunteering, working out, and hanging out with my friends. I’m a proud Haitian and the oldest of five.
I am passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals with Down syndrome. That’s why I volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse, a wonderful organization that provides a wide variety of free programs and therapies to individuals and their families. I love participating in events like the Gala, Teen Tastic, and much more. Volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse has not only allowed me to make a difference but has also enriched my life in countless ways. I am grateful to be part of a wonderful community and look forward to continuing my journey at GiGi’s Playhouse.”
Rahini Siva
“My name is Rahini Siva. I am an incoming sophomore in high school who loves being around young kids. I enjoy singing, reading, and dancing in my free time. I am interested in pursuing medicine in the future. I began volunteering here and immediately fell in love with the big smiles on the kids’ faces and their energy. This kind and welcoming community also encouraged me to help out with GiGiFIT Preschoolers on top of LMNOP.”
Alex de Souza
“I’m an elementary education major at Loyola Chicago with a minor in special education. I have always had a passion for music and love using that to teach both fitness and communication skills to the kids at GiGi’s. I volunteer at GiGi’s because the environment is always positive and welcoming, and the kids I work with are truly a light in my life. I love being able to spread that positivity and encourage others to be true to who they are and push them to be the best they can be!”
Samantha de Souza
“My name is Samantha de Souza and I’m a senior Psychology major at Illinois Wesleyan University. I love volunteering with GiGi’s because it’s so much fun to work with the kids. It’s amazing to watch them grow physically and mentally as you spend time getting to know them.”
Join Us in Making a Difference
Our GiGiFIT programs are more than just a fitness initiative—it’s a life-changing experience for children, teens, adults, and their families. To continue offering this transformative program, we rely on the generosity of donors like you.
Your donation can help us provide essential resources, trained volunteers, and a nurturing environment for every person who participates in our FREE programs.
Please consider donating today to support our programs and help us continue to positively impact the lives of people in our community.
Thank you for your support!
For more information about GiGiFIT, other programs, or to get involved, please visit our website or contact us directly. Together, we can help every person take confident strides towards a bright and active future.
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