Current Programs
Visit the All Ages and your participant's Age Group tab to see all of our FREE Purposeful Programs available!
Destination Discovery
Play = Fun + Learning Destination Discovery supports the development of fine motor skills, gross motor skills, social skills and language through purposeful play and peer to peer interaction in a casual and fun setting. This program also brings families together to share experiences and build relationships. Recommended for All Ages.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Speech & Language 1:1
The GiGi's Amina Grace One-on-One Speech & Language program provides youth, teens and adults with greatly expanded opportunities to evolve and refine their speech and language skills This program supports the increase of clarity of speech and enunciation, word order and message meaning and comprehension which benefits self-confidence, school and social readiness and Increased independence and overall quality of life. Recommended for All Ages.
San Juan del Rio
Literacy
The One-on-One Literacy tutoring program for individuals with Down syndrome provides instruction based on the interests and inspirations of each student. The Literacy tutoring program supports the increase of sight word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension, articulation, self-esteem, speech clarity and fine motor skills. Our trained tutors provide motivating and purposeful lessons designed to keep our students engaged and learning both during sessions and when extending activities at home. Recommended for ages 3+.
Literacy is an enrollment-based program that is offered 3 sessions per year. For our enrollment programs we ask that families fill out an application for their desired program. We are asking that you commit to attend each lesson within the session. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
San Juan del Rio
Math
The One-on-One Math tutoring program uses a multi-sensory, strength-based approach to build confidence and success for our students. The Math tutoring program supports the increase of the range of math skills, self-esteem, confidence, critical thinking, problem solving skills, independence and autonomy, and fine motor skills. Our research-based curriculum encompasses a variety of strategies and techniques to ensure that every student can be successful when learning math. Recommended for ages 3+.
Math is an enrollment based program that is offered 3 sessions per year. For our enrollment programs we ask that families fill out an application for their desired program. We are asking that you commit to attend each lesson within the session. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
San Juan del Rio
Art Explosion
Provides hands-on experience with multiple art media and provides an outlet for individuals with Down syndrome to express themselves, build confidence and socialize with peers.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Dance
Introduces basic dance styles, techniques and movements to participants while improving gross motor skills, increasing mental and muscle memory and increasing cardiovascular conditioning, strength, flexibility and coordination.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
San Juan del Rio
Handwriting 1-on-1
Participants will use the Handwriting Without Tears Curriculum to improve handwriting skill including: Physical Approaches and Skill Development, Letter Skills, Word Skills, Sentence Skills, and Writing Conventions. Participants will use a multisensory approach (visual, tactile, auditory and kinesthetic) to learn and practice letter formation to create words, sentences and stories.
Karate Kickers
Focuses on the development of balance, coordination, discipline, focus, attention, wellness and confidence through the basic foundational movements of karate and martial arts. Recommended for ages 8-12, 13-17, 18+.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Open Play
Promotes positive beginnings for new families, creates awareness opportunities for peers and friends while allowing families to network and support one another. Come ready for fun and a crazy good time! Open to all families of all ages.
Super Sibs
A special time for siblings to talk about the good and the sometimes not-so-good moments of having a sibling with Down syndrome. Share, play games and enjoy connecting with other siblings. This program is for youth with a brother/sister with Down syndrome.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Sports Day
Players from local sports teams (high school, collegiate or professional) are paired with GiGi’s participants. Activities include obstacles, running, jumping, Frisbee, Football, soccer, basketball, volleyball and more! Come out and have fun with your friends and siblings!
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Drama Troupe
Focuses on confidence and cooperation will be practiced through a variety of drama improvisation techniques, theatrical productions and games to recreate and learn self-expression with vocal and physical freedom.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Yoga
Helps your child develop healthy habits for a lifetime of wellness and happiness. Yoga gives children a practice and routine that integrates physical, mental and emotional development. Yoga program will help your child develop more personal awareness and learn specific strategies to maintain focus and manage their emotions and impulses.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
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. Recommended for ages pre-natal to 36 months.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
GiGiFIT Infant
In GiGiFIT Infant we are making movement fun! We introduce the concepts of foundational movements, mobility, visual-vestibular, and reflex integration activities. In a fun environment, we are purposefully progressing on improving areas of fitness through activities in strength, endurance, joint stability, balance, movement control and more. Recommended for infant to pre-walking.
If you have any health issues or need modifications to movements, please let our Playhouse staff and leaders know. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
Little Sports
Designed to develop gross motor skills, build muscle, and practice teamwork. It builds a foundation for fitness and health while exposing participants to different sports and activities. Participants will be paired with volunteers who will assist them in rotating through a variety of skills stations related to the activity.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Pre School Prep
Prepares and re-enforces tasks in a structured environment in preparation for Pre-School. Everything from appropriate peer interaction, transition of skills, center based learning to visual learning cues will be addressed. Recommended for ages 24-48 months.
Social Skills for Early Learners
Focuses on targeting functional pragmatic skills. Social learning will be provided through play with a focus on a variety of targets including: social communication, emotions, eye contact and big and small problem solving skills. The group will promote peer to peer interaction in a fun, friendly and welcoming environment. Recommended for ages 2-5.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
San Juan del Rio
Special Olympics Young Athletes
Focuses is on fun activities that are important to mental and physical growth, participants enjoy games and activities that develop motor skills and hand eye coordination. This program is in partnership with Special Olympics and is a unique sport and play program for children with intellectual disabilities. Recommended for ages 2 ½ to 7.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Little Fingers Big Plans
Promotes and teaches the foundations of handwriting, incorporating fine motor, sensory awareness, social interactions and language skills. Recommended for young learners developing handwriting skills.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Kindergarten Prep
Transforms learning into a walk of discovery, offering safe and exciting opportunities at every turn while preparing your child for kindergarten. Recommended for ages 4-6.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Be sure to check out our All Ages programs also!
Social Skills for School Age Learners
Focuses on targeting functional pragmatic skills. Social learning will be provided through play with a focus on a variety of targets including: social communication, emotions, eye contact and big and small problem solving skills. The group will promote peer to peer interaction in a fun, friendly and welcoming environment. Recommended for ages 5-12.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Speech & Language Group Kids
Speech & Language Group facilitates newly developed communication skills providing a more natural communication between peers. Participants 6-12 year olds practice new skills through informal interaction with other members of the group, with the guidance of a program leader.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Special Olympics Young Athletes
Focuses is on fun activities that are important to mental and physical growth, participants enjoy games and activities that develop motor skills and hand eye coordination. This program is in partnership with Special Olympics and is a unique sport and play program for children with intellectual disabilities. Recommended for ages 2 ½ to 7.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
GiGi's Kitchen Kids
GiGi’s Kitchen Kids is designed to emphasize the importance of a healthy lifestyle and early exposure to practical cooking skills Under the guidance of program leaders, participants will engage in activities designed to promote healthy eating habits, kitchen safety awareness, food preparation skills, self-confidence, and social skills by applying learned skills as they prepare and enjoy a shared meal/snack! This program is recommended for ages 6-12 year olds.
If you have any food allergies or aversions, please let our Playhouse staff and leaders know. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
Creative Exploration
Focused on fun and engaging activities that encourage children to explore the world around them. To make this group the best experience for your child we ask that they are able to participate in play-based activities for at least 30 minutes. Recommended for ages 5-12 year olds.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Music Makers Kids
Tap into your inner rock star where every voice shines! Music supports the increase of self-confidence, social skills, communication and motor skills. Recommended for 5 - 12 year olds
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Be sure to check out our All Ages programs also!
GiGiFIT Teen
Introduces the key movements of foundational, hip strengthening and vestibular/balance exercises, we focus on improving areas of fitness through activities in strength, endurance, joint stability, balance, movement control and more. GiGiFIT Teen incorporates age appropriate activities that teens can be successful with and strengthen their bodies purposefully. GiGiFIT promotes wellness through nutrition, pushing through barriers and building self-confidence. Recommended for 13-17 year olds.
If you have any health issues or need modifications to movements, please let our Playhouse staff and leaders know. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
Social Skills for Teens
Focuses on social skills needed to function within the community. Target skills will include conversation starters, perspective taking and teamwork/problem solving. Games and other activities will be incorporated to strengthen social interaction and practice skills. Recommended for ages 13-17
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
GiGi's Kitchen Teen
GiGi’s Kitchen Teen is designed to emphasize the importance of health and wellness through nutrition education, kitchen safety, food preparation, social activities and a shared meal/snack. Under the guidance of program leaders, participants will learn about and progress through skills including measurements, food handling, knife skills, ingredient identification, palate expansion, and nutrition. Participants will be introduced to various cooking techniques. The GiGi’s Kitchen Teen program will build participants' self-esteem and self-confidence through nutrition and wellness! This program is recommended for ages 13-17.
If you have any food allergies or aversions, please let our Playhouse staff and leaders know. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
Be sure to check out our All Ages programs also!
Friends, Fun & Fitness Adult
Our Friends get together for physical activity and a healthy snack/meal, tailored just for them! Our group of Friends is growing and we want you to join us! Recommended for ages 18+.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Social Skills for Adults
Focuses on social skills needed to function within the community. Target skills will include conversation starters, perspective taking and teamwork/problem solving. Games and other activities will be incorporated to strengthen social interaction and practice skills. Recommended for ages 18+.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
San Juan del Rio
GiGiFIT Adult
Introduces the key movements of foundational, hip strengthening, and vestibular/balance exercises, making them successful to implement and practice at any stage of life! Focuses on improving areas of fitness through activities in strength, endurance, joint stability, balance, movement control and more. GiGiFIT promotes wellness through nutrition, pushing through barriers and building self-confidence. Recommended for 18+.
If you have any health issues or need modifications to movements, please let our Playhouse staff and leaders know. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
GiGi U
A comprehensive and progressive learning program tailored specifically for adults with Down syndrome comprised of a 15-week session made up of 3-days per week instructional program. GiGi U is designed for motivated adults with Down syndrome to achieve their highest potential in the real world while developing their abilities in the areas of wellness, communication and career skills with emphasis on job interviewing, communication skills, money management, public speaking, customer service, computer skills, team building and health. Recommended for Adults 18+.
GiGi University is an enrollment based program that is offered in sessions throughout the year. For our enrollment programs we ask that families fill out an application for their desired program. We are asking that you commit to attend teach lesson within the session. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
GiGi's Kitchen Adult
GiGi’s Kitchen Adult is designed to emphasize the importance of health and wellness through nutrition education, kitchen safety, food preparation, social activities and a shared meal/snack. Under the guidance of program leaders, participants will learn about and progress through skills including measurements, food handling, knife skills, ingredient identification, palate expansion, and nutrition. Participants will be introduced to various cooking techniques. The GiGi’s Kitchen Adult program will build participants' self-esteem and self-confidence through nutrition and wellness! This program is recommended for ages 18+.
If you have any food allergies or aversions, please let our Playhouse staff and leaders know. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
Be sure to check out our All Ages programs also!
Leaps & Bounds
Leaps & Bounds is a play-based program for children that focuses on success in preschool and kindergarten. Students will participate in fun and engaging activities that provide opportunities for following routines, small group participation, movement and interaction with their environment. Family members are key participants in this program and will encourage their child to reach his or her Best of All throughout each session. Recommended for ages 3-5 year olds.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Kids Club
Supports the development of social skills and language through peer to peer interaction in a casual and fun setting. This program will also support gross motor skills through active games, fine motor and self-help skills through meal/snack preparation and activities. Recommended for 8-12 year-olds.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Teen Tastic
Focuses on building social skills with friends with and without Down syndrome by participating in team-based activities in a casual and fun setting. Skill development includes understanding compromise, turn-taking and problem-solving abilities.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Fantastic Friends
A fun purposeful & social gathering for adults with Down syndrome, their peers and the community. Supports the development of social skills and language through peer to peer interaction in a casual and fun setting. Recommended for Adults 18+.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Playhouse Pals
Supports the development of social skills and language through peer to peer interaction in a casual and fun setting. This program also supports gross motor skills through active games, as well as fine motor skills & self-help skills. Recommended for 5-8 year olds.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
GiGi Professional
Whether it’s an office, retail environment, a design studio or a production space, GiGi’s career internship programs build on the skills learned in GiGi U with practical applications and the achievement of certifications. During each individual with Down syndromes 13-week internship they will purposefully progress through certifications learning and demonstrating strengths and interests in transferable job skills, building their resume for placement in a job or volunteer position in the community. Pre-req: GiGi U. Recommended for Adults 18+.
GiGi Prep
The GiGi Prep program has an emphasis on building communication skills, money management, customer service skills, team building, health and wellness over a 10-week session made up of 2-days per week instructional learning. This program is an application based program with high expectations to motivate adults with Down syndrome. Recommended for Adults 18+.
GiGi Prep is an enrollment based program that is offered in sessions throughout the year. For our enrollment programs we ask that families fill out an application for their desired program. We are asking that you commit to attend teach lesson within the session. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
GiGiFIT Preschoolers
GiGiFIT Preschoolers includes foundational, vestibular and targeted mobility movements, reflex integration and control. We have taken these movements and concepts to the next level in a fast-paced, super fun and socially interactive atmosphere for young children who have recently mastered the ability to walk on their own. Recommended for independent walking to 5 year olds.
If you have any health issues or need modifications to movements, please let our Playhouse staff and leaders know. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
GiGiFIT You & I
During GiGiFIT You & I the #1 goal is to foster relationships and develop a positive community among caregivers. The fact that we are adding movement is a bonuswith a focus on sneaky physical therapy to improve joint stability, strength, endurance, balance and coordination. We have introduced the concepts of GiGiFIT Adult and GiGiFIT Infant to caregivers of infants with Down syndrome. Recommended for Moms, Dads, Grandparents, Caregivers and their newborn.
If you have any health issues or need modifications to movements, please let our Playhouse staff and leaders know. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
Music Makers
Tap into your inner rock star where every voice shines! Music supports the increase of self-confidence, social skills, communication and motor skills.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login
Dance Adults
Introduces basic dance styles, techniques and movements to participants while improving gross motor skills, increasing mental and muscle memory and increasing cardiovascular conditioning, strength, flexibility and coordination. Recommended for ages 18+ years old.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Art Explosion Adult
Provides hands-on experience with multiple art media and provides an outlet for individuals with Down syndrome to express themselves, build confidence and socialize with peers. Recommended for 18+ year olds
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Art Explosion Kids
Provides hands-on experience with multiple art media and provides an outlet for individuals with Down syndrome to express themselves, build confidence and socialize with peers. Recommended for 5-12 year olds
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Dance Kids
Introduces basic dance styles, techniques and movements to participants while improving gross motor skills, increasing mental and muscle memory and increasing cardiovascular conditioning, strength, flexibility and coordination. Recommended for ages 5-12 years old.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Music Makers Adult
Tap into your inner rock star where every voice shines! Music supports the increase of self-confidence, social skills, communication and motor skills. Recommended for 18+
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Music Early Learners
Tap into your inner rock star where every voice shines! Music supports the increase of self-confidence, social skills, communication and motor skills. Recommended for birth - 4 year olds
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
Music Makers Teen
Tap into your inner rock star where every voice shines! Music supports the increase of self-confidence, social skills, communication and motor skills. Recommended for 13-17 year olds
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
GiGi's Ambassador
GiGi’s Ambassadors will have exemplary communications skills and be an active member of their community. They fully understand and convey the mission of GiGi’s Playhouse, “To change the way the world views Down syndrome and to send a global message of acceptance for all.” GiGi’s Ambassadors are self-advocates and well versed in “What GiGi’s Playhouse means to me.”
A GiGi’s Ambassador is a role model and inspiration for all who enter GiGi’s Playhouse. A participant who completes the GiGi’s Ambassador certification will be given opportunities to represent GiGi’s Playhouse both in-house and in the community. They will have opportunities to actively engage in Playhouse Tours, Awareness Booths, be asked to speak at community engagement events, be an active Board of Manager member and interviews about GiGi’s Playhouse
GiGi's Educator Symposium
Educate. Inspire. Believe. - Teaching Strategies for Individuals with Down Syndrome
Where available a Watch Party will be offered as an opportunity to attend with others from the community. If there is not a Watch Party listed, we will see you virtually, you can reach out to your local Playhouse to let them know you are interested.
Achievers
The GiGi’s Achievers program empowers adults with Down syndrome with purposeful activities to ensure continued learning and fulfillment of life. This program teaches and promotes communication, self-awareness, independence, health and wellness through community engagement. Each lesson will provide participants with "hands on” learning experiences in a naturally occurring environment. A participant must be 18+ to attend this program.
If you are unable to login and register, we would love for you to join us, please contact your playhouse for assistance. When you are here we will answer all of your questions and support you with your My GiGi's login.
GiGiFIT Kids for 6-9-year-olds
GiGiFIT Kids for 6-9-year-olds combines key movements from GiGiFIT Teen and advanced progressions of activities from GiGiFIT Toddler to help improve strength, balance, coordination, peer interaction and to build a lifelong love of physical activity. GiGiFIT Kids is not just purposeful play it is our special work-out time to make you stronger, faster, more coordinated and kids say "I love this fun, structured, purposeful movements". Recommended for 6-9-year-olds.
If you have any health issues or need modifications to movements, please let our Playhouse staff and leaders know. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.
GiGiFIT Kids for 10-12-year-olds
GiGiFIT Kids for 10-12-year-olds combines key movements from GiGiFIT Teen and advanced progressions of activities from GiGiFIT Kids for 6-9-year-olds to help improve strength, balance, coordination, peer interaction and to build a lifelong love of physical activity. GiGiFIT Kids is not just purposeful play it is our special work-out time to make you stronger, faster, more coordinated and kids say "I love this fun, structured, purposeful movements". Recommended for 10-12-year-olds.
If you have any health issues or need modifications to movements, please let our Playhouse staff and leaders know. If you have questions please contact the Playhouse.