How can I play “Washing up” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 9–14 months
About this activity
Activity: Washing up. 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:
• Follow a step-by-step routine for hand-washing with an adult.
• React to water temperature.
• Understand the adult’s words about what’s happening.
• See the difference between dirty and clean hands.
• Stand and wash hands with support.
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. Say to your baby: “Let’s wash our hands—bubble-bubble!” (gesture)
Say to your baby: “Let’s wash our hands—bubble-bubble!” (gesture)
2. Turn on the bathroom light, pick up your baby, and stand them on a solid stool
Turn on the water and adjust it: “Now it’s just right!
3. Try this together
Help your baby get their hands wet under the faucet: “Get your hands wet!” Once they’re wet, squeeze some soap from the dispenser onto them.
4. Show them how to rub their palms together for a bubbly wash
Then help rinse the soap under running water: “Washing hands, splash-splash!” Let your child splash in the water, then turn off the tap: “Now your hands are clean!
5. Hand them a towel and help them dry their hands
Hand them a towel and help them dry their hands.
6. Hang the towel, pick up your child, leave the bathroom, and turn off the light
Hang the towel, pick up your child, leave the bathroom, and turn off the light.
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.