GiGi's Playhouse Orange County

Explore the heart of GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County by checking out our blog! Featuring inspiring Best of All stories, it highlights the incredible journeys of our participants, the dedication of our volunteers, and the moments that make our Playhouse so special. Dive into these uplifting stories on our website and celebrate the progress, perseverance, and passion that define our community. https://lnkd.in/gCfhJMSh

Individuals with Down syndrome are constantly making progress! Noah is proof of this. This fun, energetic 2 ?-year-old is making all kinds of strides! Noah self-feeds with a spoon, drinks from a straw cup, and can climb stairs unassisted. He started sitting up unassisted at 9 months and was walking by 19 months. Noah can also sign several words! Noah's been attending GiGi's Playhouse since he was just 6 months old, and he loves all the resources he can access! Be sure to join us TONIGHT AT THE PLAYHOUSE at 5:30pm to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day!

Individuals with Down syndrome rise to the occasion! Brandon is a perfect example of this! Brandon's always loved bowling, and he recently became a CHAMPION! Brandon took home first place in his regional Special Olympics bowling competition. But Brandon wasn't done there; he also got second place in state! A long-time member of GiGi's, Brandon has participated in programs like one-on-one tutoring and GiGi's Yoga. This World Down Syndrome Day (March 21), join us in celebrating individuals like Brandon. Be sure to join us at the Playhouse on 3/21 at 5:30pm to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day!

We’re excited to offer EmpowerMed, a workshop designed to help neurodivergent individuals and their caregivers confidently navigate medical appointments! Led by Eden, an Occupational Therapy student and dedicated GiGi’s Playhouse volunteer, this workshop will provide strategies for preparing for appointments, advocating for individualized sensory needs, and ensuring a more comfortable experience for both the individual and their family. Join us for EmpowerMed on Wednesday, 3/19/2025 at 4pm (before GiGiFIT/Fantastic Friends) or Friday, 3/21/2025 (before the ice cream party) at 4pm. If you’re unable to attend, additional resources will be available upon request. Please register here: https://lnkd.in/g427-Ern

FRIDAY! FRIDAY FRIDAY! It's that time of year again. Time to shout from the rooftops how AWESOME Down syndrome truly is. It's time to celebrate! Join us for an ice cream social and dance party to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on 3/21 (March 21st) at 5:30PM. The date for WDSD (the 21st day of the 3rd month) was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome. WDSD is a day of global awareness and acceptance of Down syndrome and the wonderfully unique individuals that we see every day at GiGi's Playhouse. See you on 3/21 at GiGi's Playhouse! Please register to let us know you'll be there! https://lnkd.in/gYjkxyaz

Here's the schedule for the week. We can't wait to see you at GiGi's! Registration is required for all programs at GiGi's Playhouse. Please register so we can plan for materials and volunteers. Register for a FREE GiGi's program TODAY! https://lnkd.in/gp7_r3TC

?? "The 4 leaf clover is considered a rare variation of the common 3 leaf clover. No one is sure how/why the extra leaf develops when all other biological and environmental conditions are the same; but they are considered good-luck and cherished by all who possess them. Down syndrome occurs in much the same way. No one knows why some babies are born with an extra chromosome, but those of us that are fortunate to have them in our lives consider it a gift....we are the lucky few. Our "clovers" are not worth more or less than standard ones- they are merely different. My hope is that one day differences will be cherished and celebrated as much as the 4 leaf clover." ?? Written by Kristina Johnson and we share the same sentiments here at GiGi's Playhouse Orange County. WE are the lucky ones who are blessed with having someone with Down syndrome in our lives.

It's that time of year again. Time to shout from the rooftops how AWESOME Down syndrome truly is. It's time to celebrate! Join us for an ice cream social and dance party to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on 3/21 (March 21st) at 5:30PM. The date for WDSD (the 21st day of the 3rd month) was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome. WDSD is a day of global awareness and acceptance of Down syndrome and the wonderfully unique individuals that we see every day at GiGi's Playhouse. See you on 3/21 at GiGi's Playhouse! Please register to let us know you'll be there! https://lnkd.in/gYjkxyaz

A huge thank you to Same Day Water Heaters for your Bronze Sponsorship for The Lucky Few Gala. Thanks to you, GiGi's families will continue to receive FREE programs, events, and tutoring at GiGi's Playhouse Orange County. We are so blessed with your support of the Down syndrome community. https://lnkd.in/gQjPZS4D

?? Swipe to see our Live Auction sneak peek. ?? Get ready to bid on some AMAZING experiences at the Lucky Few Gala! ? On March 14th at Coto de Caza Golf & Racquet Club, you’ll have the chance to take home incredible auction items—all while supporting GiGi’s Playhouse and our mission to empower individuals with Down syndrome! ???? Every bid makes a difference! So bring your A-game, raise your paddles, and let’s make this the most impactful night yet! ?? Check out our amazing auction items! Silent Auctions winners need not be present to win. Prizes can be picked up locally at the Playhouse. https://lnkd.in/gR6r7dyP