How can I adapt “We Hid! Find Us” for safe play?

By Down Syndrome Digital ·

Suggested age: 17–22 months

About this activity

Activity: We Hid! Find Us — 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?

Invite shared attention, communication, and child-led exploration at your child’s pace.

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 safe, open space

Illustration for ““We Hid! Find Us!””, step 1: Sit on the same level with your child—at a table, on the floor, or on the couch.

Play while your child is awake on a clear floor mat, with you close by. Keep blankets and cloths away from their face and sleep space.

2. Let your child see you

Illustration for ““We Hid! Find Us!””, step 2: In front of the child, hide the phone in a box with a lid: “No phone!”

Sit at their eye level, smile, and say a familiar phrase such as “peekaboo.” Keep your face and voice easy to notice.

3. Pause before you reappear

Illustration for ““We Hid! Find Us!””, step 3: Help the child find it.

Move your own face briefly out of view, then return. Do not cover your child’s face or place a cloth over a crib or play space.

4. Follow their cues

Illustration for ““We Hid! Find Us!””, step 4: Ask for the phone again and hide it in the box: “No phone!

Wait for a look, sound, or movement, and repeat only if your child seems interested. There is no need to guide their hands or 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.