How can I play “What’s Wrong?” Laugh at a Silly Situation” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 17–22 months
About this activity
Activity: What’s Wrong?” Laugh at a Silly Situation — a short, child-led play idea for children with Down syndrome aged 17–22 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:
• Understand the purpose and use of household items.
• Recognize when actions are silly jokes.
• Correct mistakes when you see them.
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. Sit down on the floor or couch with your little one
Take out some bright plastic glasses from a box: “These are glasses! Put them on your grown-up.” Help the child place the glasses on you. Praise them: “Good job.
2. Take off the glasses and give them to the child
Suggest they put them on themselves: “Here, put them on.” Praise them: “How pretty you look.” Invite them to look in the mirror: “Look at your glasses.” Ask for your child the glasses: “Give-give.
3. Take the glasses and place them on the teddy bear’s tummy
Wait for the child’s reaction. If they don’t notice something’s off, say: “No-no. Teddy put them on wrong.” Show by your behavior that this is a joke. "Ask the child: “Help Teddy put on the glasses.” Praise them.
4. If the child isn’t tired yet, you can play similarly with a little boot
You and the child put the boot on their foot, then Teddy puts it on his head.
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.