How can I play “Copy the Adult’s Actions in a Familiar Game” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 17–22 months
About this activity
Activity: Copy the Adult’s Actions in a Familiar Game — 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:
• Act out a simple, familiar scenario in play.
• Understand what’s being said to you.
• Join a dialogue in any way you can.
• Add extra elements to your play as suggested.
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 on the floor with the child
Show them a teddy bear or any small character toy (about 8–10 inches): “Teddy is here, oh-oh. Teddy wants to sleep.” "Suggest: “Put Teddy to bed.” Move a little toy bed closer and place a small pillow: “Here’s Teddy’s pillow.
2. When the child lays Teddy in the bed, praise them
Say: “Teddy is cold. We need to cover him with a blanket.” "When the child covers Teddy, say: “Rock the bed.” Demonstrate how. Give them time to rock the bed. Sing: “Aaa.
3. Try this together
After rocking Teddy, add a new element: “We’ll wake Teddy up!” Say, with a motion of your hands from low to high: “Teddy, wake up!” Suggest to the child: “Wake Teddy up. Teddy, wake up!
4. When the child repeats the motion and picks up Teddy, let them play a bit, maybe feed him
Say the game is over and put the toys away.
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.