Building Skills and Cooking Meals: GiGi’s Kitchen Fall Spotlight
Time really does fly when you’re having fun, and these past few months in our fall cooking class were no exception! As we wrap up the season, we’re looking back on the delicious dishes we’ve cooked up and the amazing progress our participants have made. From hearty breakfast sandwiches to cheesy French bread pizzas to creamy butternut squash mac and cheese, our kitchen has been full of flavor, fun, and learning. Each recipe was a chance to try something new and grow together.
The end of our Fall session also means saying goodbye to some truly incredible interns who made GiGi’s Kitchen a success. Rachel and Kelly, both seniors from Binghamton University (BU), and Laura, a senior from Lackawanna College who wrapped up her internship in October, have been absolute rock stars. Their passion, hard work, and leadership have left a lasting mark on our program. We’re so grateful for everything they’ve done and can’t wait to see what’s next for them.
Our cooking classes aren’t just about making tasty meals—they’re about building important life skills, too. While we’re chopping, mixing, and stirring, our participants are practicing fine motor skills that are essential in everyday life. Simple actions like spreading, cutting, and chopping can be much harder for individuals with Down syndrome due to naturally lower muscle tone. At GiGi’s Kitchen, we’re all about patience and progress. We encourage participants to try, make mistakes, and try again because that’s how real learning happens.
Of course, none of this would be possible without our incredible volunteers. Week after week, they’ve been right there with our participants—teaching, encouraging, and cheering them on. Their support has created a welcoming space where everyone feels safe, included, and empowered to learn and grow.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to announce our Spring cooking class! This time, it’s going to be even more special. The BU Division of Speech Language Pathology will be leading the way, putting extra focus on language development, vocabulary, and the social side of cooking. This new twist on our classic cooking class will blend culinary adventure with important communication skills. Registration for GiGi’s Kitchen Adult: Language Chef opens on January 1st and will be open until January 23rd—or until the class fills up—so don’t wait to sign up!
During the registration time you’ll be able to register for class here.
We’re beyond proud of everything we’ve accomplished this fall and can’t wait for what’s next. To our interns, volunteers, participants, and supporters—thank you for making GiGi’s Kitchen a place where growth, connection, and creativity thrive. Here’s to more delicious moments ahead!
If you have any questions about our cooking class, or any of the free programs we offer please reach out to our Volunteer and Programs coordinator Liz Stoeckel at estoeckel@gigisplayhouse.org. You can also give the Playhouse a call at (607) 217-4035.
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