Fall Programming at GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans

After an amazing first summer at the Playhouse, where we welcomed 41 families through our Playhouse doors to participate in programming, we are so excited for fall programs to begin!   

We are happy to announce that we will be launching two new programs at the Playhouse this session – Leaps and Bounds for ages 3-5 and Friends, Fun, and Fitness for ages 12-17! 

Learn a little bit more about our upcoming programs for all ages below, and RSVP for classes via our program calendar at https://gigisplayhouse.org/neworleans/calendar/ 

LMNOP (Ages 0-3)
LMNOP is an interactive and engaging program for children age newborn to 36 months old. It guides parents and young children through learning basic sign language and other forms of communication using music and language-based activities. LMNOP supports the therapeutic-based development of young children with Down syndrome with goals of achieving the following: 

• Introduce and practice the use of basic signs/gestures/pictures to support language development.
• Increase language development, with focus on vocabulary development, following basic directions and social interaction with peers using music, stories and play.
• Introduce transitions and circle time; key skills needed to prepare children for pre-school and beyond.

Leaps and Bounds (Ages 3-5)
The Leaps and Bounds program promotes social, emotional, large and small muscle group development. Children will participate in fun and engaging activities that require movement and interaction with their environment.  

Kids Club (Ages 6-12)
Kids Club is an engaging and interactive program that 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. 

Friends, Fun, and Fitness (12-17)
Friends, Fun, & Fitness is a fitness program that gives participants an opportunity to develop new friendships and have fun while increasing physical activity levels through various types of exercise. We will motivate participants to independently practice various physical activities at home/in the community. 

GiGiFIT Adult (Ages 18+)
Our 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. 

Fantastic Friends (18+)
Our Fantastic Friends program supports the development of social skills and language through peer to peer interaction in a casual fun setting. Along with their peers without Down syndrome, adult participants participate in the planning of activities so that group activities are based on personal interests. During Fantastic Friends, the group may participate in active games, dancing or exploring their local community by participating in outings and events.