How can I adapt “What Did We Make? Drawing Circles” for safe play?

By Down Syndrome Digital ·

Suggested age: 40–46 months

About this activity

Activity: What Did We Make? Drawing Circles — 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 self-directed mark-making, choices, and communication using child-safe art materials.

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 child-safe art materials

Illustration for “What Did We Make? Drawing Circles”, step 1: Invite your child by name and say, “{{CHILD_NAME}}, would you like to draw with me?

Use large, non-toxic, washable crayons or similar materials labelled for your child’s age. Avoid small parts and items that can be mouthed.

2. Set up on a stable surface

Illustration for “What Did We Make? Drawing Circles”, step 2: Sit down at the table and place a large sheet of thick paper in front of you.

Offer paper on a child-safe table or floor surface and stay nearby.

3. Invite, don’t guide

Illustration for “What Did We Make? Drawing Circles”, step 3: Then invite your child to try: “Now you draw a circle!” Praise their effort right away: “Well done!

Make a mark yourself, then let your child choose whether to draw. Do not move their hand to make a mark.

4. Finish and store materials

Illustration for “What Did We Make? Drawing Circles”, step 4: When you’re finished, look at all the drawings together.

Stop when your child is ready and put the materials away safely.

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.