Gigi's Playhouse Marks Down Syndrome Event

Gigi's Playhouse, a Down Syndrome Achievement Center located at 2503 Oregon Pike, Lancaster, added some special activities to its already robust schedule to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on March 21. Activities included a taco party with karaoke in the evening and purposeful programing with an emphasis on helping others during the day.

A little before noon, Fantastic Friends, who are adult participants with Gigi's, gathered around a table to dip pretzel sticks in molten chocolate to create brightly hued and tasty treats. The melted chocolate was colored bright blue and yellow, which are the Down syndrome colors.

Christine Hewitt, site coordinator with the Lancaster Gigi's, explained that the pretzels would be delivered to the Manheim Township Police station later in the day. "A couple of us are about to leave and go hand out some gift cards and put money at vending machines as a few random acts of kindness," said Hewitt, who was gathering adult participants to join her.

According to Hewitt, Gigi's offers nine different monthly programs, which add up to about 35 hours of programming a week. "This morning we had GiGiFIT Toddlers here," said Hewitt, who added that 1:1 literacy tutoring is also offered throughout the week. About 200 area families take part in Gigi's programming. The Playhouse opened in Lancaster in January of 2020, and it is one of more than 50 locations across the U.S. and Mexico.

On World Down Syndrome Day, Gigi's encouraged participants with Down syndrome and their families to wear mismatched socks to celebrate. World Down Syndrome Day is held on the 21st day of the third month because individuals with Down syndrome have three copies of their 21st chromosome. Because the chromosomes resemble socks, wearing mismatched socks is a way to spread awareness and acceptance of Down Syndrome.

"Everything we offer is designed to work in the ways that people with Down syndrome learn best," explained Hewitt. "But everybody is welcome," she added, noting that siblings of Gigi's participants often come to the venue. "We have others with special needs participate in our programs (as well)," she said.

Hewitt oversees programs at the Playhouse on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and works in the office on Tuesdays and Thursdays. "This job is the best, and I am thankful to have it," said Hewitt.

Readers who would like to know more about the local Gigi's Playhouse may visit https://gigisplayhouse.org/lancaster.