Posts Tagged ‘Down syndrome’
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 unfamiliar with what it means…
Read MoreHelping 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 is that fear of animals…
Read MoreParticipant 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, adapts lessons when needed, and…
Read MoreSleep 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 to 76% of individuals with…
Read MoreParticipant 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 an athlete and a role…
Read MoreVolunteer 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 had involvement in. From planning,…
Read MoreHow 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 create an environment filled with…
Read MoreParticipant 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 of South Florida, Josh has…
Read MoreLMNOP 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 begin their journey with the…
Read MoreParticipant 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 the program begins Saturday or…
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