How can I play “Moving from one support to another” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 12–18 months
About this activity
Activity: Moving from one support to another. 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:
• Take sideways steps while holding onto something.
• Move from one support to another.
• Sit down from a standing position.
• Play standing or sitting.
• Interact with an adult during play.
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. Stand your baby at a stable seat, like a chair
Stand your baby at a stable seat, like a chair.
2. Show the car: “Look, a car—beep-beep!” Offer it and play together: “Vroom, here it goes
Show the car: “Look, a car—beep-beep!” Offer it and play together: “Vroom, here it goes!
3. Move the toy onto another piece of furniture, like the couch: “The little car rolled away
Where is it?” Arrange furniture so your baby can hold on with one hand while moving from the chair to the couch: “Grab the car and drive it!
4. When your baby reaches the couch, let them have some time to play there
When your baby reaches the couch, let them have some time to play there.
5. Try this together
Move the toy on the couch: “The car is off again, brrr!” Get their attention: “Where’s the car, beep-beep? Go catch it!
6. Once your child reaches the car with side-steps, play together
If they want to sit on the floor to play, help them.
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.