Grandparent Perspective
Let’s hear from our Grandparents!
We recently shared a few Parent Perspective blog posts and thought it would be a nice change of pace to share a Grandparent Perspective. Our playhouse is fortunate to have many incredibly involved grandparents. They tutor, volunteer at events, and assist with a variety of tasks throughout the year.
One grandparent currently serves as a board member and participates in two of our special event planning committees. Meribeth is truly a joy to have around. Many of you have probably heard us refer to “Meribeth Mondays” because, in addition to serving on the board and committees, she dedicates time every Monday to assist with administrative projects and cleaning tasks around the playhouse.
We asked Meribeth, known to her grandkids as “Oma,” if she could share some perspective on her experience at GiGi’s and within the Down syndrome community. We asked her the following questions, and she happily shared her thoughts with us.
When did you first join the GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities community?
I became part of the GiGi’s family in July 2021.
What GiGi’s programs do you attend?
I have participated in LMNOP with my grandson, Henry, who is from Chicago. We have also attended Carnivals, World Down Syndrome Day Celebrations, and the Gala.
What program is your favorite or has been the most impactful to you?
Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day.
What does GiGi’s mean to you?
GiGi’s means community, acceptance, and possibility. It’s a place where Henry is celebrated for who he is and where we are reminded of their potential.
What have you gained from our programs?
Support, friendships, knowledge, and encouragement.
How do you enjoy spending your free time?
Traveling, journaling, reading, and trying my hand at art.
What does Down syndrome awareness and acceptance look like to you?
It looks like moving beyond basic awareness into true inclusion, where individuals with Down syndrome are not just recognized but genuinely valued, respected, and given equal opportunities. Acceptance means seeing the whole person first, not the diagnosis, and ensuring they have access to education, employment, friendships, and community spaces just like everyone else.
It also looks like representation in everyday life. Schools, workplaces, media, and people taking the time to learn, ask respectful questions, and challenge outdated assumptions. Most importantly, it’s about creating a culture where differences are embraced and where individuals with Down syndrome are supported in reaching their full potential without limits placed on them.
What do you want the Quad Cities community to know about your loved one and/or Down syndrome?
I would love for the community to understand that individuals with Down syndrome are capable, unique, and bring so much joy and value to the world. Henry has his own personality, strengths, and dreams just like anyone else.
What would you like to see from GiGi’s in the future?
It would be great to see continued growth in outreach. Reaching more families who may not yet know about GiGi’s and making programs as accessible as possible, whether in person or online. Most of all, I hope GiGi’s continues building that strong sense of community where families feel supported, connected, and empowered.
What would you tell a parent who just received a Ds diagnosis about navigating the diagnosis and/or GiGi’s?
I would say to keep your expectations open. Your child will grow, learn, and achieve in their own way and on their own timeline. Celebrate every milestone, no matter how big or small, and don’t let the diagnosis define what you believe is possible. Most importantly, trust yourself. You are exactly the parent your child needs.
What was your experience with receiving the Down syndrome diagnosis?
Receiving the Down syndrome diagnosis was an emotional experience for my daughter and our family. There was a lot of uncertainty at first. Over time, as we connected and became part of a supported community, our perspective started to shift in a positive way. We began to see all the joy, growth, and possibilities that lie ahead for Henry, and that has made all the difference in the journey.
📢If you are a grandparent or grandparent figure of an individual with Down syndrome — whether you live nearby or far away — we’d love to meet you!
We’re also exploring the idea of adding a special grandparent group/program to our calendar and would love to hear if this is something you’d be interested in!
We’d love to hear from you about this idea and gather your feedback on GiGi’s, too! We encourage you to take the short survey linked below and share your thoughts with us.
Thank you for being part of the GiGi’s family and for being part of your family’s support network!
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