Amina Grace Speech and Language Spotlight – Samir

The Amina Grace Speech and Language program provides youths, teens and adults with the opportunity to refine their speech and language skills. The program is open to participants of all ages and each participant works 1 on 1 with a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist at GiGi’s Playhouse. Success gained through the programs continue for participants in their natural setting as they communicate with others at home, school and in the community. The benefits of the program include increased self-confidence, improved school and social readiness and increased independence and overall quality of life. Today we highlight Samir from GiGi’s Playhouse Hoffman Estates.

 “Samir loves to go to speech. He is very serious about it and likes to work hard. Samir has many problems with his speech, but the most important one to me is that he speaks very soft and is hard to understand. I can see that Samir is trying to speak louder. A few months back when he talked to the Alexa it was very hard for her to understand. I know this is funny but now he can say the name of the song and he doesn’t get frustrated because she will eventually understand him. This is really a success. He’s involved with Book Club. I was pleasantly surprised Samir was able to read a bit louder than usual and engaged more in the conversation, usually he is very shy and if you ask him something he wouldn’t want to participate. I’m really appreciative of what Sabrina is doing with him and GiGi’s to find a spot for him in this program. Samir has also been going to the play [theater] for many years and never got a speaking part — usually just noises or single words. This year is the second time he got a speaking part; he is Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. This has usually not happened for Samir so I really appreciate this program! Sabrina has had a great influence on Samir, sometimes when he corrects me, he will refer to what Sabrina taught him as English is my second language. Thanks to the program Samir is improving which I didn’t think would happen at 32 years old. Usually as adults with Down Syndrome age they start to slow down. ”  – Samir’s Mom Krystina

Great work Samir! We’re proud of you!