GiGi's Playhouse Deerfield

08/25/2026

We are so excited to announce the launch of the Amina Grace Speech & Language 1:1 Program at GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield!

This program will provide individualized, one-on-one speech and language therapy for youth, teens, and adults with Down syndrome, helping participants strengthen their clarity of speech, communication, comprehension, confidence, independence, and so much more.

We are also excited to offer LSVT LOUD®, an additional, more intensive speech therapy opportunity for families who are interested and able to commit to the program’s schedule.

Two incredible opportunities. One important goal: helping our participants find and strengthen their voice.

Like all of our programs at GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield, these services will be offered completely FREE OF CHARGE to our participants and families.

Applications are open now! If you are interested in speech and language services for your child, teen, or adult with Down syndrome, apply today! This first cycle will have a quick turnaround, sessions will begin September 14th!

https://gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/amina-grace/

08/24/2026

Intern ➡️ Interim Staff ➡️ Emotional Support Coworker ➡️ GiGi’s Deerfield’s FIRST Speech-Language Pathologist on staff! Some people just feel like they were always meant to be part of the Playhouse, and Grace is one of them.

From intern, to interim staff, to unofficial emotional support coworker, Grace has grown alongside our Playhouse and now, as a licensed SLP, she is officially joining the team!

And she’s not just joining us. She’s helping us make a BIG dream come true.

Grace will be launching our #1 most requested program: FREE 1:1 Speech Therapy for our participants. It’s the culmination of so many dreams: the dream job, the dream program, and most importantly, the dream of our families to have the support they need to help their loved ones find and strengthen their voice, in whatever way they communicate.

Please join us in officially welcoming GRACE! 💙 We have a feeling she will be quite popular.

And trust us, you’re going to want to stay tuned.
More details about our Speech & Language Program coming TOMORROW!

08/21/2026

When you’re out here living your best newly independent life… and then that LMNOP song catches your attention and suddenly you’re right back where you belong. 😉

08/19/2026

Join us on September 19th at Ferrari Lake Forest for an unforgettable evening benefiting GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield. Enjoy a gourmet dinner, open bar, silent auction, inspiring stories, and dancing surrounded by Ferrari’s breathtaking collection.
But the heart of this night goes far beyond the beautiful setting.
Every ticket, every bid, and every moment of generosity helps provide free, life-changing programs to individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Your support creates opportunities for growth, confidence, friendship, and independence, helping individuals of all ages discover just how much they are capable of.
This is more than a gala. It’s an evening celebrating potential, possibility, and a community that believes everyone deserves the chance to thrive.
We hope you’ll join us and be part of something truly meaningful. 💛
September 19th | Ferrari Lake Forest | 5:00pm
Come to see the Ferraris. Stay for the purpose. Leave knowing you helped change a life.
https://gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/gala/

08/18/2026

We were so excited to join our friend and inspiration, Chris Maliszewski, on his podcast!

We had such a fun conversation about all things GiGi’s Playhouse, including our programs, Down syndrome, the importance of creating a community where everyone belongs, tattoos, our upcoming gala, and so much more.
Chris has been such an incredible friend and supporter of our mission, and getting the chance to sit down, share stories, laugh, and talk about the work we love was truly special.

Give the episode a listen and get to know a little more about what happens at the Playhouse, why this work matters, and how you can support! 💙💛
🎧 Listen to the full episode here!

Chris Maliszewski of Hail Hail Auctions is excited to welcome Shann...

08/17/2026

This month, you have TWO chances to dine out and make a difference for GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield!
Head to Oberweis in Gurnee or Lazy Dog in Vernon Hills, Buffalo Grove, or Northbrook on Friday, August 21st, mention GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield, and a portion of your bill will be donated back to the Playhouse.
Good food + supporting our mission = a win-win. So grab your friends, bring your appetite, and make your next meal count!

08/17/2026

Music Makers is back this Saturday!
Join Payton from Prospect Music Therapy every other Saturday at GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield for a fun-filled morning of music, movement, and creativity!
Music Makers can be a great fit for kids who may not always feel comfortable in other programs, including children with dual diagnoses or those who benefit from a more flexible, sensory-friendly environment. Through singing, instrument play, movement, and stories, participants can build confidence, communication, connection, and so much more, all while having FUN!
Ages 3–5: 10:00 AM
Ages 5–12: 11:00 AM
Come make some music with us this Saturday! https://gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/sfcalendar/?eventId=a0VTS000009wQzU2AU

08/16/2026

Back to school, back to the Playhouse!
School is back in session, which means we’re getting back into our routines, seeing our favorite people, and filling the week with plenty of fun!
Check out our calendar to see what’s happening at GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield this week. We can’t wait to see you! 💛 gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/sfcalendar/

08/15/2026

At GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield, we’re working toward a world where individuals with Down syndrome are accepted, embraced, and celebrated in their families, schools, and communities.
Together, we can help create a world where everyone belongs.
Be Accepting. Be Generous. Be Kind. https://gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/

08/14/2026

Ready to get moving?
GiGiMOVE Jiu Jitsu is all about building strength, endurance, balance, coordination, discipline, confidence, and so much more! Our participants get to challenge themselves, learn new skills, and have a whole lot of fun along the way.
Join us every other Saturday at 10:00 AM, including tomorrow! 
Come ready to move, learn, and show yourself what you can do! https://gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/sfcalendar/?eventId=a0VTS000009wT2s2AE