An Awesome Journey of Courage 1 Step at a Time: Kyle’s Breakthrough at GiGi’s Playhouse…

Kyle’s journey from newcomer to regular participant

Kyle Drinkward, 24, first stepped into GiGi’s Playhouse on a quiet afternoon in June 2023, accompanied by his parents. As we walked through the Playhouse, he remained close to his mom and dad, clutching a small stuffed bunny for comfort. He was shy, quiet, and hesitant, unsure of what to expect. When I explained our programs that we offered for adults, his dad, Dick, admitted that he wasn’t sure if he would participate. He wasn’t even certain if he would want to be in a crowded space. 

People with special needs, including individuals with Down syndrome, often face significant challenges when entering new environments. Changes in routine, unfamiliar surroundings, and meeting new people can lead to heightened anxiety and discomfort, making it difficult for them to adjust. Sensory sensitivities, such as noise or bright lights, can also amplify stress. Additionally, communication barriers may make it harder for them to express their needs or feelings, leading to frustration or withdrawal. Patience, understanding, and gradual exposure are essential to help them feel safe and supported in unfamiliar settings.

I reassured them, “We work in baby steps here. One week it might be five minutes, the next it could be six. Little by little, until he feels ready. We’re not in a rush—we’re on Kyle time.” 

The following week, Kyle and his dad attended a busy GiGiFIT class. To our surprise, he stayed the entire hour, bunny tucked in his pocket for comfort. After GiGiFIT, we offer Fantastic Friends, another hour of social activities. Though he wasn’t ready to stay for that, they continued coming each week, attending GiGiFIT regularly. Week by week, he became more comfortable. He started making friends, smiling more, and participating with more enthusiasm. But he still wasn’t ready to stay that extra hour for Fantastic Friends. 

Until this week. This time, Kyle didn’t just walk into the Playhouse—he RAN in with pure joy, racing down the hallway to greet his friends. His voice echoed through the Playhouse as he shouted, “WELCOME BACK!” at the top of his lungs. Dick, standing in my doorway, could hardly believe what he had just seen. “Did you hear that?” he exclaimed. “Did you see him run by? I can’t believe this! He’s never done that before.” 

The breakthrough was deeply emotional for both Dick and me, as we had witnessed Kyle’s journey of courage and growth here at GiGi’s Playhouse. Week after week, we saw him take brave steps forward. Dick often shared how he would gently prepare him a few days in advance, asking if he felt ready to attend GiGi’s Playhouse. In those early months, those prep-talks were essential, but as time passed, something beautiful happened—Kyle began to mention GiGi’s on his own. He started looking forward to it. 

Dick’s unwavering dedication to bringing Kyle every week has been nothing short of remarkable. His patience and support were the foundation that allowed Kyle to feel safe and welcomed, and gradually, he embraced GiGi’s as his own space. Over time, it wasn’t just a place to visit; it became a second home, a community where Kyle felt comfortable, accepted, and part of something bigger. This breakthrough wasn’t just a moment for him—it was a testament to the love and commitment that Dick had poured into this journey, helping him not only find his footing but flourish in a way that none of us could have imagined. 

It was a moment none of us will forget—proof of the incredible progress Kyle has made, one step at a time, on his own terms.