How can I play “Recognize Action Words” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 17–22 months
About this activity
Activity: Recognize Action Words — 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:
• Recognize action words.
• Understand what a phrase means.
• Copy what a character does.
• Copy actions you see in a picture.
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. Try this together
Again, you’ll need simple cards showing a character doing something (bunny eating, washing, sleeping) and a box. Place the first card in front of the child and say: “Bunny is eating, yum-yum.” Ask: “Show me how Bunny eats.” Put the card in the box.
2. Try this together
Place the second card and name it: “Bunny is washing paws, splash-splash.” (gesture) Ask: “Show me how Bunny washes paws.” Put the card in the box. Place the third Card and say: “Bunny is sleeping, night-night, aaaah.” (gesture) Ask: “Show me how Bunny sleeps.” Put the card away.
3. Show two cards: “Bunny is eating” and “Bunny is sleeping.” Ask: “Which one is Bunny eating
Which one is Bunny sleeping?” Show two cards: “Bunny is eating” and “Bunny is washing paws.” Ask: “Where is Bunny eating? Where is Bunny washing paws?
4. Show different pairs in any order
Tell the child the game is over and put the cards 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.