GiGi's Playhouse Wausau

GiGi's Playhouse is a network of brick and mortar Down Syndrome Achievement Centers throughout the U.S. and Mexico.  GiGi’s Playhouse was created to change the way the world views a Down syndrome diagnosis and send a global message of acceptance for all.

The journey of GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau began with the dedication of a group of moms, family and key guiding community members in 2018. Our dedicated start-up group shifted to a governing Board of Managers and became an LLC and found a location to call our home in 2020. We are centrally located and welcome families from across North Central Wisconsin.

Almost 4,000 sq ft of fun and purposeful learning space, our facility includes standard areas like a Family Resource Area, Therapeutic Play Area, 3 Tutoring Labs and a Café' G Kitchen along with specialty areas like a Sensory Room, Club GiGi Teen & Adult Area and a GiGiFIT Gym. We are nestled among several businesses, yet vibrant and visible and what a great way to promote inclusiveness in our community. 

All of our therapeutic, educational programs and future tutoring are free and support all ages, from families with a prenatal diagnosis through adult individuals with Down syndrome. Our programs focus on a variety of skills, including gross and fine motor skills, literacy and math skills, social skills, and confidence–all with the goal of helping individuals with Down syndrome become their best selves.

We change lives through consistent delivery of FREE educational, therapeutic-based and career development programs for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community, through a replicable playhouse model.  At GiGi's we are all about inclusivity and welcome other diagnosis to attend as we understand our programming is beneficial not only to those with Down syndrome. 

We understand that many families are first time parents and they need us. Many young parents do not expect, or know in advance of their child’s diagnosis, and they need renewed hope and genuine acceptance from day one.  At GiGi’s Playhouse families are never alone. From a prenatal diagnosis to career skills, we make a lifetime commitment to remain by their side. Families are empowered with all the tools their child needs to succeed!

The very first Playhouse was created to be an inspirational and dedicated place for families to celebrate their child and benefit from free, purposeful programs that unleash joy, confidence and continuous improvement. More than 60 Playhouses empower children and adults to achieve their “Best of All” and to pursue their dreams.