How can I play “Trying on Mom’s glasses” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 9–14 months
About this activity
Activity: Trying on Mom’s glasses. 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:
• Sit without resting on your hands.
• Notice what others are using around you.
• Spot changes in the adult’s appearance.
• Use objects the right way.
• Join in conversation and understand what’s said.
• Grab and explore items.
• Show interest in mirrors.
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. Position your baby facing you (in a bouncer, highchair, or on the floor)
Show them bright plastic glasses: “Look at these glasses!
2. Try this together
Put on glasses: “your grown-up’s wearing glasses!” Wait for your baby to reach out: “Here, take them!
3. Try this together
Lean down so your baby can pull off your glasses: “Take them!” After they play, ask for them back: “Give them to your grown-up!
4. Put your glasses back on and lean closer so your baby can reach out and grab them
Put your glasses back on and lean closer so your baby can reach out and grab them.
5. When your child takes the glasses off you, go to the mirror together
Help them put the glasses on: “Look how great you look!” Finish the game.
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.