Spotlight: Our Friend Theo 

Since GiGi’s Playhouse Portland opened its doors in Fall 2024, a very bright light has been shining in our space—Theo! Full of energy, creativity, and smiles, Theo brings joy to every program he attends. 

Whether he’s running the ice cream cart or “vacuuming” the playroom, Theo knows how to have a good time. One day, while waiting for Destination Discovery to begin, he transformed a collection of stools and chairs into a movie theatre; the visitors from Tacoma’s A Place For Me were surprised to be seated in a theatre with no screen. That’s the kind of imagination we love around here. 

A regular at Destination Discovery, Theo is playing and learning. He’s been signing along with volunteers, confidently using signs like “stand” and “wait.” And while he sometimes exclaims “It’s too messy!” during sensory activities, he always ends up diving in once he sees the fun everyone is having. 

Recently, Theo began his journey into Literacy tutoring. He had a great time running back and forth to show his magnetic letters and their corresponding sounds to his mom. 

When his sister Adalynn (or “Sissie,” as he calls her) tags along, the two make a great team—playing and sharing like experts. 

How has your family member with Down syndrome inspired you lately? Let Rae know at rhofstedt@gigisplayhouse.org.