How can I play “Hand it over” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 9–14 months
About this activity
Activity: Hand it over. a short, child-led play idea for children with Down syndrome aged 9–14 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:
• Play turn-taking games: “Give me—take it.
• Copy adult actions in these games.
• Understand and follow requests.
• Make sounds upon request.
• Taking turns prepares little ones for talking.
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. Sit facing your baby—on a couch if they sit alone or in a bouncer/reclined seat if needed
Grab a musical toy (like a toy hammer). Show it and tap: “Tap-tap.
2. Offer your baby a toy hammer: “Here you go
Offer your baby a toy hammer: “Here you go!
3. Try this together
Ask your baby to copy your moves: “Give it a tap-tap!” Talk about what they’re doing: “Tap-tap-tap!
4. Ask your baby for the hammer: “Give!” Use a gesture (picture) to go with your words
Ask your baby for the hammer: “Give!” Use a gesture (picture) to go with your words.
5. Play with the hammer yourself, then give it back: “Here
Tap: tap-tap!” After a few turns, let them keep it to play on their own.
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.