Understanding the Dual Diagnosis of Down Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder
When most people think of Down syndrome, they often picture the unique strengths, personalities, and developmental characteristics associated with the condition. However, some individuals with Down syndrome may also have a second diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While this dual diagnosis is becoming more widely recognized, many families are still...
Helping Individuals with Down Syndrome Overcome a Fear of Dogs and Other Pets
Many individuals with Down syndrome and other special needs experience fear or anxiety around animals, especially dogs. This fear can range from mild nervousness to intense distress that makes it difficult to visit friends, participate in community activities, or enjoy public spaces where pets may be present. The good news...
Participant Best of All: Mary Frances
This month we shine our Best of All spotlight on Mary Frances. Mary Frances is one of our co- leads for our GiGiMOVE: Yoga Program. She continues to lead with her heart through her incredible support of this program. She helps decide on what poses to do, encourages fellow participants,...
Sleep Matters: Understanding Sleep Challenges in Individuals with Down Syndrome
Sleep apnea is real — and so is insomnia. When sleep is constantly interrupted, getting meaningful rest can feel impossible. But why does sleep matter so much, and what can families do to help? For individuals with Down syndrome, sleep challenges are extremely common and often overlooked. Research shows that up...
Participant Best of All: Julia
This month we celebrate Julia, a participant who not only inspires others with her own Best of All achievements, but whose actions allow her to serve as a positive influence on younger peers. As a longtime member of Cheer Gems, Julia has spent the last 5 seasons shining as both...
Volunteer Spotlight: Briana Lopez
This month we shine our volunteer spotlight on Briana Lopez who has been an incredible part of the GiGi’s Playhouse Tampa team this Spring as part of her college internship. Over the past four months, Briana has brought energy, creativity, and dedication to every facet of the Playhouse that she’s...
How Community Changes Everything
Hello, GiGi’s Playhouse Tampa community! Today, we want to reflect on something that makes our Playhouse so special—our community, and how it truly changes everything. GiGi’s Playhouse Tampa is more than just a place to attend programs—it’s a place where individuals and families come together to build meaningful connections. It’s where participants, families, and volunteers...
Participant Best of All: Josh
At GiGi’s Playhouse Tampa, Best of All means striving to be better than you were yesterday. This month, we are proud to celebrate Josh for the incredible growth he has been showing in both our one-on-one speech therapy sessions and adult group programs. Working with graduate Speech Language Pathology students from University...
LMNOP Turns One: A Year of First Words, First Steps, and Growing Together
GiGi’s Playhouse Tampa celebrates one year of Language Music N' Our Peeps, helping our youngest participants build communication skills while families build community. When we launched LMNOP at GiGi’s Playhouse Tampa on April 5, 2025, our goal was simple: create a welcoming space where families with babies and toddlers could...
Let’s Celebrate National Reading Month: Our Literacy Spotlight is on Jennifer!
Lets Celebrate Reading March is National Reading Month, and at GiGi's Playhouse Tampa we are celebrating the power of literacy and the incredible participants who continue to grow in confidence and independence through reading. One of the many free educational programs offered at GiGi’s Playhouse is the 1-on-1 Literacy Tutoring Program, which pairs trained...
Participant Best of All: Joshua
This month we celebrate Joshua and the 'Best of All' moments he has achieved in group programs at GiGi's Playhouse Tampa! In GiGi’s Kitchen Adult, Joshua brings enthusiasm and positivity to every class - especially when pancakes or any breakfast menu is involved! Whether helping set up the kitchen before...
Volunteer Spotlight: Jasmin, Dona, and Alina
This month we recognize Jasmin, Dona & Alina - the trio of co-leads who lead our Kids Club Program - the GiGi's Playhouse signature programfor ages 8-12 (currently scheduled biweekly on Saturdays 12:00–1:30pm). Initially starting the program last summer with friend Linda as the original 3rd Co-Lead, the current trio...