Tiny Toes on the Move: Yaneli’s First Steps in the Playhouse!

Have you heard of LMNOP? Language Music N’ Our Peeps (LMNOP) is an interactive and engaging program designed to guide parents and young children through learning basic sign language and other forms of communication while using music and language-based activities.

Through LMNOP, many connections have been made and #BestofAll moments have been shared together. From meeting friends, to other families, or engaging withour wonderful volunteers; it is a truly cherished program in our playhouse.

This past week, we got to share a truly special and unforgettable moment with one of our participants. Yaneli and her mom joined us last Tuesday, and during their visit, Yaneli took her very first steps — right inside the playhouse!

This is a milestone in any child’s life, but witnessing it unfold here made it even more meaningful. Knowing that Yaneli found the courage, confidence, and joy to take those first steps in a space filled with love and support is something we will always treasure.

Moments like these remind us why inclusive spaces matter — they are where growth, possibility, and celebration meet.

Yaneli’s mom shared a few heartfelt words about what this moment meant for her and what it’s like raising a child with Down syndrome: “I feel truly blessed to be her mother. She has brought so much joy into our life, after losing my grandfather! When finding out we had a 95% chance of her having Down syndrome, I was very scared because we didn’t know anything about Down syndrome and didn’t know if we would be able to care for her. We were so worried about all the unknown, most importantly, her having any type of heart condition. But as my due date came closer, after praying so much, we just couldn’t wait for her arrival. She is such a strong smart loving little girl. Always super happy and loves playing and learning!”

Hearing these powerful words from Yaneli’s mom is a reminder of the strength, love, and resilience that surrounds every child and the families who walk alongside them. Yaneli’s first steps were more than a milestone; they were a celebration of possibility, hope, and the beauty of embracing every part of the journey.

We are honored to have been part of this moment and look forward to celebrating many more milestones with our incredible families.