How can I play “Playing with a ball” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 12–18 months
About this activity
Activity: Playing with a ball. 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:
• Sit and play, keeping balance even when your arms are moving.
• Roll the ball where you want it to go.
• Take turns with each other.
• Copy what the adult does.
• Understand what the adult says.
• Respond with fun exclamations or simple words.
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 your baby on the floor and sit about 50–70 cm away
Show them a medium-sized ball: “Check out this ball!
2. Roll a ball toward your baby and let them roll it back
Roll a ball toward your baby and let them roll it back.
3. Ask them to throw or roll the ball to you: “Give-give!” (show both hands)
Ask them to throw or roll the ball to you: “Give-give!” (show both hands).
4. When your baby rolls the ball, cheer them on
Show you’re happy it rolled to you.
5. Roll the ball back to your child
Keep going if they want more.
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.