How can I play “Snuggles with a nursery rhyme” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 9–14 months
About this activity
Activity: Snuggles with a nursery rhyme. 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:
• Match words to specific things or actions.
• Learn parts of the face and body.
• Copy the adult’s actions.
• Notice your surroundings, look forward to fun moments.
• Play while sitting and keep your balance.
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. Seat your baby comfortably, depending on their sitting skills, facing you
Recite a fun little rhyme slowly. Act it out by touching the named body parts: “These are eyes to see,” and gently cover their eyes.
2. Point to your baby’s nose and say: “This is your nose, so you can breathe
Point to your baby’s nose and say: “This is your nose, so you can breathe!
3. These are your ears for listening!” Gently pat your baby’s ears
These are your ears for listening!” Gently pat your baby’s ears.
4. These legs are made for running!”—lightly stroke your baby’s legs and move them gently
These legs are made for running!”—lightly stroke your baby’s legs and move them gently.
5. Try this together
These are your hands to hug your grown-up.” Gently stroke your child’s hands and open them out to the sides.
6. A really big hug!”—wrap your arms around your child and give them a kiss
Play as long as they want.
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.