How can I play “Playing with toys during bathtime” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 12–18 months
About this activity
Activity: Playing with toys during bathtime. 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:
• Play sitting.
• Grab small items in the water.
• Place objects into a container.
• Fit a ball through a round opening.
• Understand the adult’s words.
• Say some words or make exclamations.
• Water play helps your baby relax, calm down, and sleep better at night.
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. Show your baby a bright towel: “Time for a bath—splish-splash
Show your baby a bright towel: “Time for a bath—splish-splash!
2. Take a towel to the bathroom and open the door so your baby hears the water
On the way to the bath, say: “We’re going to bathe—splish-splash!
3. Sit your baby in their bath seat
Help them splash the water with their little hands.
4. Drop the floating balls into the water
Drop the floating balls into the water.
5. Take a ball and drop it into the basket: “Boom
Take a ball and drop it into the basket: “Boom!
6. Give your little one a ball and suggest they drop it into the basket: “Drop the ball, boom
Give your little one a ball and suggest they drop it into the basket: “Drop the ball, boom!
7. Suggest putting the remaining balls in the basket
Praise your child: “Great job, you collected all the balls!” Repeat the game as long as your child is interested. If they’re done playing, gather the toys and take them out of the bathroom.
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.