Down syndrome center GiGis’s Playhouse opens in Patchogue

GiGi’s Playhouse, billed as Long Island’s first Down syndrome achievement center, opened in Patchogue this weekend.

The center, which opened in advance of World Down Syndrome Day on Sunday, March 21, offers free programs to parents and is mostly run by volunteers.

Located at 100 Austin St., GiGi’s Playhouse Long Island is part of a nonprofit chain of nearly 50 similar Down syndrome achievement centers across the U.S. and Mexico, with several more opening soon. 

The mission of GiGi’s Playhouse is to change the way the world views Down syndrome and send a global message of acceptance for all. It features tutoring, speech, fitness and career development programs, among other offerings.