Participant Best of All: Theodore

Celebrating Theodore L.’s Best of All

This summer, Theodore has truly embodied the spirit of “Best of All” through his active participation in many of our summer programs. From GiGi’s Kitchen to GiGiFIT Kids and Art Explosion, he has consistently demonstrated enthusiasm, effort, creativity, and determination.

In GiGi’s Kitchen, Theodore shines with his eagerness to learn, whether he’s chopping, scooping, or tasting! He patiently waits his turn, encourages his peers with kind words, and proudly shares the final creations with everyone in the room. 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 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! 

During GiGiFIT Kids, Theodore continues to impress with his strength and agility. He approaches each fitness station with focus and determination, working hard to meet his goals while also lifting others up with supportive, motivating words. GiGiFIT Kids is designed to help improve strength, balance, coordination, peer interaction and to build a lifelong love of physical activity. 

In Art Explosion, we’ve had the joy of watching Theodore’s imagination take flight. He approaches every project with confidence and adds his own creative twist, resulting in colorful and unique works of art that reflect his vibrant personality. Art Explosion is designed to provide 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.

In addition, at our recent collaborative Open Play at Flips for All, something truly special happened. Theodore and Myron met for the very first time and quickly formed a beautiful bond. Their connection began on the trampoline, where Theodore took on the role of a gentle guide, encouraging Myron to explore the excitement of bouncing and jumping. With patience and a big heart, Theodore showed Myron how to bounce higher, land on his bottom, and bounce back up to his feet.

At first, Myron was a little nervous, but Theodore’s encouragement, demonstrations, and giggles, helped him gain the confidence to try and succeed. As the morning went on, the two became inseparable, sharing those giggles and even a string of goodbye hugs that had everyone smiling.

Community events like this shine a light on just how warm, welcoming, and uplifting our participants can be not only with familiar faces from their families and from GiGi’s, but also with new friends in the wider community. It’s a beautiful reminder that when given the chance, individuals with Down syndrome show the world not just what they can do, but how deeply they can care, connect, and inspire.

Too often, families are told what their children may not be able to do whether it’s something as simple as learning to jump or making meaningful peer connections. But time and again, our friends with Down syndrome defy those outdated expectations. They grow. They lead. And they lift one another up!

Friendships like the one between Theodore and Myron don’t just warm our hearts, they remind us of the power of community, inclusion, and belief. We can’t wait to see what these two accomplish together next!

Theodore’s commitment, positive energy, and team spirit have made him a standout this summer!