How can I play “Understanding words: choosing between two items” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 12–18 months
About this activity
Activity: Understanding words: choosing between two items. 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 adult speech.
• Point to the picture you choose out of two.
• Show the requested item or picture.
• Reach out and grab the picture.
• Play while sitting.
• Make eye contact.
• Enjoy praise.
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 face-to-face with your baby so your eyes are level
Show them the pictures you prepared: “Bear—ehh, Bunny—hop hop, Spoon—yum yum, Car—beep beep, Ball—boom!
2. Put the picture cards back in the box
Put the picture cards back in the box.
3. Take two pictures at a time and hold one in each hand: “Show me the bunny
Take two pictures at a time and hold one in each hand: “Show me the bunny!
4. Once your baby shows you the picture, confirm: “Yes, it’s a bunny—hop, hop
Once your baby shows you the picture, confirm: “Yes, it’s a bunny—hop, hop!
5. Offer the next pair of pictures
Continue the game as long as your child is interested.
6. Praise your child and pack all the pictures back into the box
Praise your child and pack all the pictures back into the box.
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.