How can I adapt “Going on a Picnic” for safe play?

By Down Syndrome Digital ·

Suggested age: 40–46 months

About this activity

Activity: Going on a Picnic — 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?

Share attention and conversation while noticing the familiar world around you.

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. Choose a safe place outside

Illustration for “Going on a Picnic”, step 1: You will need a box or basket for the picnic, a tablecloth, dishes (plates, cups or mugs, spoons), plastic food containers, food (for example, pies), bottles with drinks (for example, fruit drin

Stay together in a familiar, enclosed area away from roads, open water, stairs, and other hazards.

2. Notice before touching

Illustration for “Going on a Picnic”, step 2: Prepare the food you need in advance and show it to your child one by one.

Invite your child to look, point, or listen. Do not handle unfamiliar animals, plants, or objects, and do not feed wild birds.

3. Keep materials age-appropriate

Illustration for “Going on a Picnic”, step 3: Talk about it together with your child: “What will we eat from: plastic plates or something else?” “What should we take — cups or beakers?

Avoid small stones, seeds, and loose items that could be mouthed. Use only familiar items that are safe for your child.

4. Follow your child’s interest

Illustration for “Going on a Picnic”, step 4: At the picnic, involve your child: “Please pass me a cup.” “Unscrew the cap on the bottle.” “Open the container with the pies.” After the picnic, involve your child in cleaning up the rubbish a

Name what you notice and allow time for your child to respond or move on.

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.