How can I invite safe movement during “Marching Together”?

By Down Syndrome Digital ·

Suggested age: 17–22 months

About this activity

Activity: Marching Together — 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?

Notice your child’s interest, comfort, and self-directed movement during a shared play moment.

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. Choose a clear, level space

Illustration for ““Marching Together!””, step 1: For this game, take a big soft toy (or a ball) and something that appeals to the child—maybe a family member, a musical toy, a book, or any favorite item.

Play on a stable floor area, away from stairs, furniture edges, and other hazards. Do not use a couch, table, or exercise equipment as a climbing surface.

2. Offer an invitation, not a movement prompt

Illustration for ““Marching Together!””, step 2: Spread your arms wide: “The hen is big!” Help the child hold it with both hands in front of them.

Place a familiar toy where your child can see it. Let them choose whether to reach, shift, sit, or move.

3. Do not lift, pull, or position

Illustration for ““Marching Together!””, step 3: Stand behind the child, supporting their hips: “Let’s walk to the chair, step-step.” As they walk, gradually reduce support so they can practice walking.

Do not pull your child by the hands, place them on furniture, or move their limbs to make a movement happen.

4. Adapt to what your child already manages

Illustration for ““Marching Together!””, step 4: When you both arrive at the chair, suggest: “Sit the hen down, cluck-cluck.” Once the child places the toy, invite them to climb onto the chair: “Climb up with the hen.” Help them get comfort

If standing, climbing, or walking is not already part of your child’s safe routine, keep the activity at floor level.

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.