How can I share “I Feed Myself!” Bite-Sized Food” safely with my child?

By Down Syndrome Digital ·

Suggested age: 17–22 months

About this activity

Activity: I Feed Myself!” Bite-Sized Food — 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.

The illustrations come from the source activity. The written steps have been adapted for safer, child-led play; do not copy equipment or handling positions shown unless they are specifically recommended for your child.

What can this activity invite?

Share attention and choices during a familiar mealtime routine, only when it is already appropriate for your child.

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. Use your child’s usual mealtime setup

Illustration for ““I Feed Myself!” Bite-Sized Food”, step 1: Sit down at the table with your child.

Follow the positioning and equipment plan already recommended for your child. This activity is not feeding therapy or a replacement for that plan.

2. Use only familiar, approved foods or drinks

Illustration for ““I Feed Myself!” Bite-Sized Food”, step 2: Pick up one piece and eat it: “Oh, this is yummy!” Offer your child a choice: “Which one does {{CHILD_NAME}} want?

Offer only items and textures already considered appropriate for your child. If you are unsure, use an empty cup or spoon for pretend play instead.

3. Let your child set the pace

Illustration for ““I Feed Myself!” Bite-Sized Food”, step 3: Say: “Now Mommy will take something.” Pretend to think: “Which one—this one, or that one?

Give your child time to look, choose, reach, or pause. Never place food in their mouth, close their lips, or prompt them to swallow.

4. Keep the moment pressure-free

Illustration for ““I Feed Myself!” Bite-Sized Food”, step 4: When finished, say: “That was so tasty!” Offer a napkin to wipe their mouth and hands.

Notice communication and shared attention rather than how much your child eats or drinks. Do not introduce a new texture as part of this game.

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.