How can I include my child in “Bathtime—“Splash-splash”?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 9–14 months
About this activity
Activity: Bathtime—“Splash-splash. 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.
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?
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
Gather the towel and age-appropriate bath toys before your child is near the water.
2. Describe the routine
Use familiar words, gestures, or a song to let your child know what is happening next.
3. Stay within reach
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
Use an intact toy made for your child’s age, with no small detachable parts. Let your child look or reach if they choose.
5. Keep the routine simple
Name the toy, describe what you are doing, and follow your child’s interest. A bath seat or toy is never a safety device.
6. End using your usual safe routine
Keep supporting your child as you finish bath time and move them away from the water.
7. Put toys away afterward
Once your child is safely away from the water, gather and store the bath items out of reach.
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.