We are looking for VOLUNTEERS to help support our fantastic individuals with Down syndrome!
GiGi’s Playhouse highlights the following academic and developmental activities. We are looking for dedicated adults (18 or older) that are interested in leading and/or supporting the following programs.
https://gigisplayhouse.org/milwaukee/
https://www.facebook.com/pg/gigisplayhousemilwaukee
Signature therapeutic & early learner programs need supportive volunteers to assist the lead volunteers:
Destination Discovery – Play = Fun + Learning. 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. All ages welcome.
Fantastic Friends – A fun night out to facilitate social interactions between 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. All adults welcome from ages 18 and up. This group meets the last Friday of every month from 7-9pm.
Kids Club – Support 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 old’s.
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 using music and language based activities. Recommended for ages newborn to 36 months.
Playhouse Pals – Support 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 old’s.
Teen Tastic – Focuses on building social skills with friends 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. Recommended for ages 13-17 year old’s. This group meets the second Friday of every month from 4:30-6pm.
Literacy Tutoring – Individuals learn to read and develop literacy skills at a different pace. The GiGi’s one-on-one Literacy Program builds a foundation in sight word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension and articulation through one-on-one literacy tutoring adapted to fit the learning style of individuals with Down syndrome. Recommended for ages 3 and up.
Specialty therapeutic-based programs need supportive volunteers to assist the lead volunteers:
Art Explosion – Art Explosion provides hands-on experiences with multiple art mediums & provides an outlet for individuals to express themselves, build confidence & socialize with peers. This program is for all ages & siblings are welcome, we meet the third Saturday of every month.
Cheer Gems – Cheer Gems is an active and energetic group for individuals with Down syndrome that focuses on a positive mind, recognition and SPIRIT! Cheer Gems provides a springboard of confidence and gives children the opportunity to compete on a cheer squad. Recommended for girls and boys ages 6-18 years.
Dance – This program introduces basic dance styles, techniques & movements to participants. We will work towards improving gross motor skills, increasing mental & muscle memory & cardiovascular conditioning, strength & flexibility! Jazz, ballet, hip hop, creative movement & more! Led by Academy of Dance Arts teachers & students. Dance is broken into two sessions, 6-12 years & 13+ years.
Karate Kickers – The benefits of karate are endless. Karate supports development of balance, coordination, discipline, focus, attention, physical fitness, & confidence. There will be no physical contact between peers. Recommended for all youth with Down syndrome & siblings! Led by Girton’s ATA Taekwondo.
Yoga – Yoga supports physical & mental needs of individuals with Down syndrome. Activities strengthen the body, improve self-esteem, develop concentration, & increase body awareness. Yoga can easily be modified to suit various conditions & personal interests. This program is for ages 6+
These are programs that we hope to offer, but first need a lead volunteer to run the program as well as supportive volunteers to assist.
Math Tutoring – The aim of our math program is to help promote a positive experience of learning mathematics and to develop a sound foundation of basic number understanding. Understanding that our children will vary greatly in individual abilities and challenges in comprehending math, we combined multiple approaches which utilize multi-sensory teaching, and aligned them with topics taught in the classroom, in hopes of providing a comprehensive and cohesive program.
Leaps & Bounds – This program will help promote social, emotional, large and small muscle group development. Children will participate in fun and engaging activities that require movement and interaction with their environment. Recommended for children ages 3-5 years old.
Preschool Prep – Preschool Prep will help prepare young children, ages 24-48 months, for preschool & re-enforce home therapy tasks. Structured activities include practicing following one & two step directions, managing transitions between centers, & participation in group activities. Behavior management strategies will also be incorporated to promote success. All children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian, as a primary support throughout the class. Advanced Registration is required; class size is limited to 5 participants.
TEAM (teaching, exercise, activity, movement) – This program is for 16+ & focuses on lifelong healthy living skills. We are striving for a healthy body & mind by focusing on exercise & nutrition! Advanced registration required. Class limited to 10 participants per session.
