How can I play “What's in the Box?” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 12–18 months
About this activity
Activity: “What's in the Box?” — a short, child-led play idea for children with Down syndrome aged 12–18 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:
• Understand and name the purpose of objects in simple ways.
• Explore a box, take items out.
• Put items back in the box.
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 on a comfy surface with your baby
Place a box nearby filled with different items and toys, like a cup, spoon, car, or teddy.
2. Draw your baby’s attention to a box: “Wow, what a box
What’s inside?” Slide it closer, peek in, shake it, but don’t take anything out. Let your baby pull items out, one by one.
3. React when something appears: “Oh, what’s that
What do we do with it?” If your baby names it in any way—by sound or gesture—praise them and repeat what they said.
4. Try this together
If your baby’s stuck, name the object yourself: “Spoon—yum-yum” (gesture) “Cup—drink” (gesture) “Teddy—eh-eh” (gentle rocking move) “Car—beep, vroom!” (roll the car).
5. Pack all the items into a box together
If your child is still curious, invite them to look inside again and keep playing.
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.