How can I play “Where’s the kitty?” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 9–14 months
About this activity
Activity: “Where’s the kitty?” — 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:
• Anticipate what’s about to happen.
• Play while sitting.
• Keep balance when turning your head or body.
• Predict how people or objects move.
• Understand and repeat “meow.
• Turn toward the sound.
• Be happy to see the toy appear.
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 your baby in the crib and drape a blanket over one side like a screen
Show a soft toy (like a kitty): “Here’s a cat—meow!
2. Try this together
Hide with a toy, then pop it out from behind a blanket on the right side and say: "Kitty says meow!" When your baby focuses on the toy, praise them: “Great job! You found the kitty!
3. Hide the kitty behind a little screen
Hide the kitty behind a little screen
4. Try this together
Change where the kitty appears—now have it call from the left: “Meow!” Repeat the game several times, switching the kitty’s spot.
5. Pull off the cover and give them the kitty: “Play with the kitty—pss-pss
Meow!
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.