Programs for school age children and teens

Art Explosion- Art explosion provides a hands on experience with multiple art media and provides an outlet for individuals with Down syndrome to express themselves, build confidence and socialize with peers. For children 9 and up.

Busy Hands, Bigger Plans- This program promotes the development of existing handwriting skills . While this program is primarily a handwriting group, we also work on fine motor, sensory awareness, social interaction, and language skill development.

Cheer Gems- Cheer Gems is an active, energetic group focused on positivity, recognition and spirit.  Cheer Gems provides a springboard of confidence, gives children the opportunity to compete on a cheer squad and have a shared experience with their typical peers.  Recommended for girls and boys between the ages of 4-16.

Cooking Club- Get cooking with your friends at GiGi’s!  This program is geared toward building safety awareness in the kitchen and preparing healthy recipes that taste great.  Recommended for youth and teens ages 10 – 18.

Karate Kickers- The benefits of karate for people with Down syndrome are endless.  Karate focuses on development of balance, coordination, discipline, focus, attention, physical fitness, and confidence. There will be no physical contact between peers.  Recommended for youth with Down syndrome and siblings ages 8 and up.

Kids Clubhouse- This program will help promote friendships, social skills and peer interactions through creative and social activities. Recommended for youth who are 9-12 years old.

Literacy Tutoring- Each individual learns to read and develop literacy skills at a different pace. The GiGi’s Literacy Program builds a foundation in articulation, sight word recognition, vocabulary and comprehension through one-on-one literacy tutoring adapted to fit the learning style of individuals with Down syndrome.  Recommended for ages 3 and up.

Little Fingers, Big Plans- This program promotes the foundations of early handwriting skills for children who are beginning to show an interest in coloring.  While this program is primarily a handwriting group, we will also incorporate opportunities for fine motor, sensory awareness, social interaction, and language skill development.  More experienced writers, check out Busy Hands, Bigger Plans.

Math Tutoring- Math Tutoring Program is designed to promote a positive experience of learning math and to develop a foundation of basic number understanding. These skills go beyond addition and subtraction and include telling time, fractions, money, and other concepts taught in the classroom.  This multisensory program incorporates proven methodology from professionals in the field of special education.  Catering to children of all ages and skill levels, the GiGi’s Math curriculum helps students with school preparedness, maintain grade level mathematics, and gain important skills for independence.  Recommended for ages 3 and up.

Playhouse Pals- This program will help promote friendships, social skill development and safety awareness through creative and social activities.  Recommended for children 6-8 years old.

Summer Backpack Buddies- Summer Backpack Buddies is a group literacy and math program for all children and teens, at or below a second grade reading level. Each session we will explore two subjects in math or language, where participants have fun while learning! Sign up for a few sessions or the entire program, to maintain essential skills during the summer! Siblings are welcome!

Super Sibs- A special time for siblings of individuals with Down syndrome to talk about the good, and the sometimes not-so-good moments of having a sibling with Down syndrome.  Share, play games and enjoy connecting with other ‘siblings’.  This program is for youth with a brother or sister with Down syndrome. Recommended for siblings age 6 to 13.  Parents are encouraged to meet in another room of the Playhouse during this program.

Teen Drama Troupe- Confidence, communication and cooperation will be practiced through a variety of drama and improvisation techniques and games.  We will choose a theatrical production to re-create and learn to express ourselves with physical and vocal freedom. Ages 13 – 17; minimum 5 students to run class.  Parents are encouraged to meet in another room of the Playhouse during this program.

Teen Tastic- This group promotes friendships, social interaction and communication through a variety of social activities, outings and games for teens.  Recommended for all teens ages 13-17.

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