How can I invite safe movement during “Carnival”?

By Down Syndrome Digital ·

Suggested age: 24–31 months

About this activity

Activity: Carnival — 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 “Carnival”, step 1: You’ll need several hats, sunglasses, scarves.

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 “Carnival”, step 2: Invite your child to dress each other in turns: “Now you put a hat on Mama.” If your child follows simple requests well, make it more challenging by asking for two items at once: “Give me the hat and the

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 “Carnival”, step 3: If your child shows interest, add other accessories like glasses or a scarf.

Do not pull your child by the hands, place them on furniture, or move their limbs to make a movement happen.

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.