Still Glowing from Halloween Fun at GiGi’s!

It might say November on the calendar, but we’re still grinning from all the Halloween fun at GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee!

Halloween can be spooky — but Down syndrome isn’t. At GiGi’s we love to dispel the myths surrounding Down syndrome and to show that our friends are more like their peers than different! Halloween is the perfect time to dress up and show up as you are, live out your dreams and have fun with your friends!

Speaking of friends, the Marquette University Speech and Language clinicians and Professor Jen Eggert had a blast celebrating with costumes from Bluey. Check out those smiles — and they got all of their students to continue to work hard building confidence and communication skills thanks to support from Amina Grace Memorial Fund that supports our 1:1 Speech & Language Program.

And on October 22, our Halloween Glow Party lit up the Playhouse! The night was full of laughs, lights, and treats. We may have skipped karaoke this time, but we more than made up for it with games, activities, pizza, and glowing good vibes all around.

From silly costumes to bright smiles, these moments remind us that community and connection shine the brightest — even in the dark!

Why Speech Is So Important for Someone with Down Syndrome?

Speech and language development can be especially challenging for individuals with Down syndrome because of differences in muscle tone, oral structure, hearing, and memory for sounds. But communication is so much more than words — it’s how we connect, express, and build confidence.

Speech therapy helps strengthen those muscles and skills needed for clearer speech, but it also empowers our participants to share their thoughts, tell their stories, and be heard. Programs like the FREE 1:1 Amina Grace Speech & Language Program at GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee make that possible — giving individuals the tools and confidence to advocate for themselves and engage more fully with the world around them.

What Is Hypotonia?

Many people with Down syndrome experience hypotonia, which means low muscle tone. This doesn’t mean weak muscles — it means muscles that are slower to contract and provide less resistance to movement. It can affect coordination, balance, and oral motor skills, which are important for speech and feeding.

Through fun, targeted therapy and consistent practice, individuals can strengthen these muscles and build endurance — making communication, play, and movement easier and more enjoyable. It also affects the whole body including core muscles which impact EVERYTHING! Just think, if your stomach muscles are weak so is your back, then sitting and standing are difficult, our friends might be very flexible, but they need to train their muscles to work hard and build up coordination and endurance.

Why Socialization Matters

Social skills are learned and practiced — and everyone deserves spaces where they can feel safe, accepted, and celebrated while learning them. For individuals with Down syndrome, socialization helps build independence, confidence, and a sense of belonging.

When we host events like our Halloween Glow Party, we’re creating opportunities for connection — a place where friendships form naturally and everyone can participate without judgment or pressure.

Why Safe Spaces Like GiGi’s Are So Important

Having a safe, inclusive environment allows individuals with disabilities to explore new experiences at their own pace in a place where they feel comfortable. For some, loud noises, crowds, or unpredictable settings can feel overwhelming — so having familiar faces, sensory-friendly activities, and supportive volunteers makes all the difference.

At GiGi’s, we celebrate what makes each person unique while building comfort and confidence through positive, joy-filled experiences. Whether it’s trick-or-treating, dancing under the glow lights, or simply spending time with friends — these moments help our participants grow socially, emotionally, and personally.

At GiGi’s, every celebration is more than just a party — it’s purposeful. Experiences like our Halloween Glow Party and Speech & Language sessions build communication, confidence, and connection in ways that last far beyond the event itself. For individuals with Down syndrome, practicing speech, strengthening social skills, and having a safe, inclusive space to shine all help nurture independence and belonging. When our friends feel seen, supported, and celebrated, their voices grow stronger — and so does our community.

Want to help by becoming a volunteer?
General volunteers and event committee members are needed for annual events planning or day of event assistants are needed as well. Help with set-up, clean-up, check-ins, event photography, and overall planning as your time and desires align.