How can I play “Reading a book” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 9–14 months
About this activity
Activity: Reading a book. 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:
• Look at pictures in a book.
• Flip stiff pages.
• Match pictures to words.
• Interact and cooperate with an adult.
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 comfortably and hold your baby slightly sideways, leaning on you
Take a book: “Look at this book—let’s see!
2. Try this together
Turn book pages slowly, pointing and naming pictures: “Here’s a teddy—eee!” “Here’s a bunny—hop-hop!” “Here’s a car—vroom!” “Here’s a ball—boom!” Leave the page slightly lifted before turning to the next.
3. Your baby will flip the picture all the way to see it
Name the picture they focus on, then move on when they’re done.
4. Close the book and put it away
Close the book and put it away.
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.