How can I invite safe movement during “Blanket Ride”?

By Down Syndrome Digital ·

Suggested age: 24–31 months

About this activity

Activity: Blanket Ride — a short, child-led play idea for children with Down syndrome aged 24–31 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 “Blanket Ride”, step 1: Suggest to your little one to play a game of “Journey.” Use a blanket or throw that can slide easily on the floor.

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 “Blanket Ride”, step 2: Stop by the couch: “We’ve arrived!

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 “Blanket Ride”, step 3: Ask your child, “Shall we go to the Bunny?

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 “Blanket Ride”, step 4: You can make the game more challenging: “Let’s go to the Puppy!” and start moving in the wrong direction.

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

5. Follow your child’s cues

Illustration for “Blanket Ride”, step 5: Gather all the friends onto your train and, at the end of the game, let your child play “train” with them—have your little one try pulling the blanket with the toys on it.

Pause or stop if your child looks away, seems tired, or is uncomfortable. There is no required movement or result.

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.