GiGi's Playhouse, GiGi Prep, GiGi U

Program Overview

The GiGi Prep program is a progressive learning program for adults The classes meet two times each week for 6 weeks. The program encompasses self-confidence, fitness and nutrition, as well as social and academic lessons in math and literacy. GiGi Prep is registration and acceptance based. A student must complete GiGi Prep to be considered for GiGi U2

GiGi University (GiGi U) is a comprehensive and progressive learning program tailored specifically for adults with Down syndrome. GiGi U is a 15-week instructional program designed to motivate adults with Down syndrome to achieve their highest potential in the real world while developing their abilities in the areas of health & fitness, communication, and career skills with emphasis on job interviewing, communication skills, money management, public speaking, customer service, team building, wellness and academic lessons in math and literacy.Successful completion of GiGi Prep is a prerequisite for applying to GiGiU.

The GiGi's Playhouse 1:1 Literacy Tutoring Program uses a methodology with documented success based on research by professionals in the field. The ability to read opens doors for individuals with Down syndrome in the workplace, schools and the community. Developing reading skills also leads to improvements in speech and language development, auditory perceptual skills and working memory function. Our goal is to foster a love for reading and provide an opportunity to develop and master skills, all while building a positive relationship with our volunteer tutors. Trained tutors work at the level of the child, continually challenging and encouraging him/her to reach their Best of All. Students can start in our program as early as age 3 or any year after that. It's never too late to start! Weekly lessons last 45-60 minutes for 10-15 weeks at a time. Family members attend each tutoring session and leave with practical activities to continue the learning at home.

Cost Info

Student and Volunteer Success Stories

Fletcher is a dynamic and charismatic 22 year old with Down syndrome who can charm his way out of, or into, any situation! He began our GiGi's Literacy Tutoring Program when he was in high school and was completely unable to read. Very quickly our tutor recognized that Fletcher had "charmed" his way out of learning because it WAS a challenge for him. So when he told his teachers it was too hard, he was so believable, they moved on with other areas of his education. His very intuitive GiGis Tutor called his bluff and very quickly realized he COULD read he just didn't want to learn. He is now enrolled in our GiGiU program and reading and writing at a skill above his classmates. He doesn't really even want people to step in and help, he figures it out by himself. By the way, Fletcher is also an aspiring actor.