How can I play “Putting objects into a box with a round hole” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 12–18 months
About this activity
Activity: Putting objects into a box with a round hole. 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:
• Interact and talk with the adult.
• Drop the balls into the round opening.
• Sit and play.
• Match the ball to the hole, guiding your movements with your eyes.
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
Option 1: Use a shape-sorter box or a box with a round hole in the lid, plus small balls and a dish or tray for the balls. Seat your baby on a flat surface and sit in front of them. Pick up a ball from the tray: “Look at this ball!
2. Drop the ball in the hole: “Bam
Where’s the ball?
3. Point out the rolling ball: “There’s the ball
Point out the rolling ball: “There’s the ball!
4. Hand your baby the ball: “Throw the ball into the hole
Hand your baby the ball: “Throw the ball into the hole!
5. Let your child drop the ball and watch it roll out
Repeat while they’re interested.
6. Option 2: If you have a box where balls don’t roll out, play the same way
The only difference is, after dropping in a few balls, open the box and show them inside: “Look at the balls!
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.