How can I include my child in “Shampoo Time”?

By Down Syndrome Digital ·

Suggested age: 40–46 months

About this activity

Activity: Shampoo Time — 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.

This is a general toy-and-container play illustration, not a bath setup or safety guide. Follow the written steps and keep your child within reach whenever they are near water.

What can this activity invite?

Build a predictable, shared routine using familiar words, gestures, and age-appropriate bath toys.

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. Prepare before water time

Illustration for “Shampoo Time!”, step 1: Let your child choose a shampoo with a pleasant smell and “no tears” label – let your child smell the bottles.

Gather the towel and age-appropriate bath toys before your child is near the water.

2. Model the toy-and-bucket game

Illustration for “Shampoo Time!”, step 2: Say to your child: “Now we are going to wash your hair with the shampoo you chose!” The adult puts a little shampoo on their hands and lathers it up: “Now I will wet your hair, put on the shampoo a

Before moving near the bath, sit together on a dry, stable surface. If your child is unsure, place one age-appropriate bath toy into an empty bucket and invite them to try. Follow their cues; do not use the tub or water for this part.

3. Stay within reach

Illustration for “Shampoo Time!”, step 3: If you have one, put a bath visor on your child, or first cover your child’s eyes with your hand: “Cover your eyes with your hands and I will pour the water!”.

If your child is in or near water, keep continuous adult attention and hands-on support. Never leave them alone, even briefly.

4. Offer one familiar toy

Illustration for “Shampoo Time!”, step 4: Take off the visor and immediately put a hooded towel on your child’s head: “Let’s pat your hair dry, do you want to help?”.

Use an intact toy made for your child’s age, with no small detachable parts. Let your child look or reach if they choose.

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.