How can I share “Eating a cookie while holding it” safely with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 12–18 months
About this activity
Activity: Eating a cookie while holding it. 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.
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 attention and choices during a familiar mealtime routine, only when it is already appropriate for your child.
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. Use your child’s usual mealtime setup
Follow the positioning and equipment plan already recommended for your child. This activity is not feeding therapy or a replacement for that plan.
2. Use only familiar, approved foods or drinks
Offer only items and textures already considered appropriate for your child. If you are unsure, use an empty cup or spoon for pretend play instead.
3. Let your child set the pace
Give your child time to look, choose, reach, or pause. Never place food in their mouth, close their lips, or prompt them to swallow.
4. Keep the moment pressure-free
Notice communication and shared attention rather than how much your child eats or drinks. Do not introduce a new texture as part of this game.
5. Stop when your child signals
Pause or stop if your child turns away, coughs, gags, seems tired, or is uncomfortable. Follow the feeding plan you already use.
6. Use pretend play when needed
If eating or drinking is not appropriate at that moment, name an empty utensil, offer a choice, or play with a toy version instead.
7. Finish in your usual way
Use your normal mealtime routine. Ask your child’s feeding or speech-language professional about any feeding concerns.
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.