How can I use “The Wheels on the Bus: An Action Rhyme” to invite communication?

By Down Syndrome Digital ·

Suggested age: 40–46 months

About this activity

Activity: The Wheels on the Bus: An Action Rhyme — a short, child-led play idea for children with Down syndrome aged 40–46 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 shared attention, communication, and child-led exploration at your child’s 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. Settle face to face

Illustration for “The Wheels on the Bus: An Action Rhyme”, step 1: Sit comfortably facing each other.

Choose a comfortable, stable position your child already manages safely. Keep your face in view and speak in a familiar voice.

2. Say their name and pause

Illustration for “The Wheels on the Bus: An Action Rhyme”, step 2: Move your hands from side to side, like wipers.

Say your child’s name gently from one side, then wait. There is no need to turn or guide their head.

3. Notice any response

Illustration for “The Wheels on the Bus: An Action Rhyme”, step 3: Pretend to press the horn: press the index finger of one hand onto the palm of the other.

A glance, sound, smile, or no response at all is okay. Follow your child’s pace and avoid repeating the cue rapidly.

4. Finish with connection

Illustration for “The Wheels on the Bus: An Action Rhyme”, step 4: Rub your fists near your eyes to show how the babies are “crying”.

Offer a smile, song, or cuddle only if your child enjoys it. Stop whenever they look away or seem uncomfortable.

5. Finish with connection

Illustration for “The Wheels on the Bus: An Action Rhyme”, step 5: Put your finger to your lips: "shhh." Say: "The mummies on the bus go "shush, shush, shush" — shhh, shhh, shhh.

Offer a smile, song, or cuddle only if your child enjoys it. Stop whenever they look away or seem uncomfortable.

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.