A timely discovery, from the NICU to LMNOP
When Jamie welcomed her son Zander into the world, she knew she wanted to get involved with GiGi’s Playhouse. She was eager to find something fun and meaningful to do with him before returning to work. However, life had other plans. “We came home from the NICU during winter sickness season and were trying to keep him healthy and out of the hospital,” Jamie shares.
Amid these challenges, Jamie discovered the Virtual LMNOP program, which turned out to be exactly what they needed.
“I started participating in virtual LMNOP with him, and it has been great. We started when he was so little, and he was asleep half the time, but I stayed on so I could learn new signs and would do the stories and signs with him later.”
As Zander grew, the time spent in Virtual LMNOP became more interactive and meaningful. “Now, he enjoys doing that, and I enjoy being able to have that time to be working with him. I think he enjoys the time too,” Jamie reflects. This summer, their journey took a delightful turn as Zander’s older brother joined in on the fun, creating even more special moments for their family.
Though they haven’t yet visited their local Playhouse, Jamie expresses her gratitude for the connections they’ve made through Virtual LMNOP. “I still haven’t really had a chance to get him to our local playhouse, so I am so glad that we’ve been able to get involved this way.”
Zander’s story beautifully highlights the impact of our virtual programs, offering families like theirs a chance to connect, learn, and grow together, no matter the circumstances. We are always welcoming more families like Zander’s into the Virtual Playhouse, so sign up for a free programs here or connect with us today via email at virtual@gigisplayhouse.org to learn more!
A sister’s impact
Many of our volunteers come to us because their lives have been personally touched by knowing someone with Down syndrome. We have many volunteers who have a sibling with Down syndrome and choose to give back by volunteering through our virtual 1:1 tutoring program or virtual group programs. Their passion for the Down syndrome community…
Where in the world will you impact acceptance?
Registration is NOW OPEN for the GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge! Join us in advocating for acceptance within the Down syndrome community. Let’s demonstrate that everyone deserves acceptance, regardless of differences in race, gender, diagnosis, sexual orientation, or religion! Our goal is ACCEPTANCE for all! You can register today with your local playhouse or through the Virtual…
Illuminating Pathways to a Brighter, More Inclusive Future
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many aspects of our lives were upended. But amidst the challenges, opportunities for connection and growth emerged in unexpected places. For Cindy Marie, this opportunity came in the form of GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse. When the pandemic closed physical locations, Cindy Marie found herself eager to continue supporting the…