How can I explore “Magic Bag” safely with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 21–25 months
About this activity
Activity: Magic Bag — 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.
These illustrations are reused from related activities and may show a different toy or action. Treat them as visual references only; follow the written steps for this activity.
What can this activity invite?
Explore familiar objects together, share their names and uses, and let your child choose what to handle.
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 sturdy open container
Use an open basket or box on a stable surface, not a plastic bag, drawstring bag, or container with loops or cords.
2. Select a few safe objects
Choose large, washable, intact items suited to your child’s age. Avoid small parts, glass, sharp edges, and anything that can fit fully in the mouth.
3. Invite your child to explore
Show the container and name one object. Let your child decide whether to look, reach, or take it out.
4. Let your child handle the object
Give them time to explore while you stay close. Do not guide their hand or place an object in their mouth.
5. Name and describe
Use a few words to name the object and describe what it is for. Demonstrate only a safe use, such as brushing a doll’s hair.
6. Offer another choice
Pause before offering another object. Follow your child’s interest and remove anything they mouth or that becomes damaged.
7. Return objects together
Invite your child to place the large objects back in the open container, without requiring them to finish.
8. Put everything away
Count the items as you store them out of reach. Stop earlier if your child is finished.
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.