How can I play “Ticklerhymes” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 2–5 months
About this activity
Activity: Ticklerhymes. a short, child-led play idea for children with Down syndrome aged 2–5 months. Follow your child’s cues and enjoy the activity at their pace.
These steps are invitations to play, not therapy or a milestone test. Choose a comfortable, stable position, supervise closely, and pause whenever your child needs a break.
What can this activity invite?
This activity may offer opportunities to notice:
• Make eye contact with the adult.
• Smile or laugh at gentle touches.
• Look forward to together time and cuddles.
What do I need for this activity?
A comfortable, stable place to play and the familiar items named in the steps. Choose materials made for your child’s age and ability; keep small parts, loose strings, plastic bags, and balloons away from babies and young children.
How do I play this activity?
1. Place your baby in a bouncer (60–70° incline)
Sit opposite them at roughly the same height. Smile, call baby by name: “Let’s play!
2. Try this together
Tell your baby a slow, gentle rhyme, making circular motions on their tummy: “Round and round the garden, Goes the teddy bear…
3. Walk” your fingers from their tummy to their shoulders: “One step, two steps…
Walk” your fingers from their tummy to their shoulders: “One step, two steps…
4. Give quick, gentle finger tickles: “Tickle you under there
Give quick, gentle finger tickles: “Tickle you under there!
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need to finish every step?
No. Follow your child’s interest and stop whenever they need a break. There is no correct pace or required outcome.
What if my child is not interested today?
That is okay. Pause, try another activity, or return another day. Looking away or turning away is a cue to give your child space.
How long should we play?
There is no set duration. A short, comfortable moment is enough; stop if your child seems tired, distressed, or uncomfortable.
Is this therapy or a developmental assessment?
No. This is a play invitation, not therapy, a milestone target, or an assessment. It does not replace advice from your child’s clinicians.
Can I adapt this activity for my child?
Yes. Keep it comfortable and child-led. For questions about feeding, oral-motor skills, bath safety, positioning, or movement, use guidance from your child’s own care team.