How can I adapt “Wash Up” for safe play?

By Down Syndrome Digital ·

Suggested age: 24–31 months

About this activity

Activity: Wash Up — 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?

Invite your child to take part in a familiar everyday routine at their own pace.

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. Use familiar personal-care items

Illustration for “Wash Up”, step 1: Gather soft bath mitts, squeezable sponges, and foam mousse your child can spread on themselves.

Choose the child-safe soap, brush, comb, or clothing item your family already uses.

2. Set up safely

Illustration for “Wash Up”, step 2: Sit your child in the tub.

Use a stable position and keep close adult supervision near water. Keep products and small parts out of reach.

3. Offer a small choice

Illustration for “Wash Up”, step 3: “Now we’ll wash you.” Put a small amount of foam mousse on your child’s palm — this builds body awareness.

Invite your child to choose or hold an item if they want to. Do not force touch or move their hands.

4. Follow the usual routine

Illustration for “Wash Up”, step 4: Offer your child a small towel for the doll: “Dry Dolly.

Describe one simple step at a time and allow your child to watch, join in, or decline.

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.