How can I play “Making music on the metallophone” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 12–18 months
About this activity
Activity: Making music on the metallophone. 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:
• Discover the sound of a new musical instrument.
• Practice hitting the right spot with the mallet to make a sound.
• Copy the adult’s moves with the toys.
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. Try this together
You’ll need a xylophone (or metallophone), a mallet, and a small stand (like a bench or thick book). Sit across from your baby. Put the xylophone on the stand.
2. Pick up a stick and demonstrate how to tap a xylophone
Pick up a stick and demonstrate how to tap a xylophone.
3. Help your baby grasp the little stick in the right way
Help your baby grasp the little stick in the right way.
4. Invite your baby to play: “Okay, (baby’s name), go tap-tap!” (gesture)
Then praise them.
5. Ask for the little stick and have a turn playing with it yourself
Ask for the little stick and have a turn playing with it yourself.
6. Try this together
Offer the stick to your child: “Now it’s your turn, your child!” Keep taking turns, watching your child’s interest.
7. Give your little one some time to play the xylophone on their own
Give your little one some time to play the xylophone on their own.
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.