Volunteer Spotlight: Kelly – GiGiFIT Infant and Toddler Program Leader

I’m Kelly Starsky – “Ms. Kelly” at the Playhouse! I’m a Marquette graduate and have been a pediatric physical therapist my whole career. While I have worked in Birth to Three and outpatient clinics in the past, I’ve mostly worked in public schools— that’s truly where my heart is happy! When I was growing up I always wanted to be a teacher, so being a school-based PT lets me be a teacher in a different sort of way and satisfy that childhood dream! My former neighbor (hi Lisa Kocab!) was integral in bringing a GiGi’s Playhouse to Milwaukee and when I heard that the GiGiFIT program was starting, I thought it was a great time to volunteer and help give a boost as we all try to emerge from 2020. I love working with families and helping them see that all they really need to do is PLAY and the motor development will happen! The network of support and information that GiGi’s creates among families as they meet, play, and grow with their children is inspiring! My husband is also a physical therapist and teaches at Marquette. I’m a mom to 4 and a dog-mom to 2. I love reading, walking, cooking, and creating. I’m currently teaching the GiGiFIT infant and toddler classes on Saturday mornings and would love to see you and your child join us in the music, movement, and fun!

GiGiFIT Infant & Toddler starts again for the summer on June 19 and meets weekly at 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. until August 28

Registration is open until June 18: https://gigisplayhouse.org/milwaukee/gigifit/

Our FREE GiGiFIT programs combine physical therapy with a strong fitness focus and an ultimate goal of success and improved movement. GiGiFIT was created in collaboration with skilled Physical Therapists who work specifically with individuals with Down syndrome. The GiGiFIT programs are designed to address common issues for individuals with Down syndrome including hypotonia, excessive joint laxity, and decreased balance. Every GiGiFIT program is safe, effective, and progressive. GiGiFIT helps participants build strength, endurance, power, joint stability, balance, and movement control. GiGiFIT empowers participants to be more independent and confident in their abilities while improving their overall health and wellness. This program is broken into age groups to best support each participant as they grow and mature.