Gigi’s Playhouse - Down Syndrome Achievement Centers

Families in El Paso are excited about Gigi’s Playhouse.  Their goal is to see a world where individuals with Down syndrome are accepted  in their families, schools and communities.  Their mission is to inform the community about Down syndrome through national campaigns and educational programs.  They also work to empower individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community. 

At Gigi’s Playhouse, there is something different for everyone.  Families may find support, education, information, a hug, a party, a self-esteem boost.  But for all, it’s a place to belong.

The center in El Paso is working on increasing literacy.  The four most important areas of focus are pronunciation, sight word recognition, vocabulary and comprehension.  They offer group tutoring for school aged and older adults. 

The center offers services to families and professionals who are interested in learning how to work better with individuals with Down syndrome.

Gigi’s Playhouse is a part of the national association started by Nancy Gianni, Gigi’s mother.  Nancy says, “When Gigi was born, I remember being so afraid of Down syndrome.  It seemed like everyone, including the medical staff, were also afraid for me, which scared me even more.  I remember thinking ‘How am I ever going to explain this feeling to my kids?  How will I tell them that this is our new life?’”  Nancy soon realized that Gigi was more like her other kids than she was different. 

El Paso is now the proud home to this incredible center that is helping many families, children and adults who are looking for support and for a place to “belong.”  Everyone should have access to services like those offered at Gigi’s Playhouse.  To learn more about this center and others in the country, check out the Gigi’s Playhouse website  For other parent groups in your area, go to Find Parent Groups by County on this website.