How can I play “Little musicians” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 9–14 months
About this activity
Activity: Little musicians. 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:
• Match a toy with an adult’s word, baby talk, or gesture.
• Copy adults in back-and-forth play.
• Try different ways to make sounds.
• Understand and follow requests.
• These turn-taking steps prepare for talking later.
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
Put a small box on the table or floor and open it.
2. Take out a rattle from the box, shake it, and say: “Here you go, let’s play
Take out a rattle from the box, shake it, and say: “Here you go, let’s play!
3. If your baby is shaking a rattle, ask them for it: “Give it to me!” Use a simple gesture
If your baby is shaking a rattle, ask them for it: “Give it to me!” Use a simple gesture.
4. After several turns, put the rattle in the box and take out the musical hammer
Tap the hammer and give it to the child, saying: "Here, knock!" Use a gesture and say the words: "Knock-knock.
5. Ask your child for the hammer and tap with it again
Then put it back in the box.
6. Give your little one a box of musical toys to explore on their own
They can try different ways to make sounds.
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.