How can I play “Let's Put the Doll to Sleep” as a safe pretend routine?

By Down Syndrome Digital ·

Suggested age: 21–25 months

About this activity

Activity: Let's Put the Doll to Sleep — a short, child-led play idea for children with Down syndrome aged 21–25 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?

Use pretend play to share a calm, familiar bedtime routine while keeping the doll’s play space separate from your child’s real sleep space.

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. Set up pretend bedtime

Illustration for “Let's Put the Doll to Sleep”, step 1: In the room where your little one plays a lot, set up themed trays or boxes with toys.

Use a doll and a simple pretend bed on a stable play surface. Keep this game separate from your child’s real sleep space.

2. Show a calm routine

Illustration for “Let's Put the Doll to Sleep”, step 2: Sit comfortably on the floor next to or facing your child.

Talk or sing softly as you pretend to help the doll get ready for bed.

3. Let your child lead

Illustration for “Let's Put the Doll to Sleep”, step 3: Put a sheet or a mattress in the bottom of the bed.

Invite your child to choose a next step for the doll. Do not require a particular action or response.

4. Keep loose items out of real sleep spaces

Illustration for “Let's Put the Doll to Sleep”, step 4: Say: “Now you can put Dolly down.

This is pretend play only. Follow current safe-sleep guidance for your child and keep toys, pillows, and loose blankets out of an infant’s sleep space.

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.