How can I play “Looking at family photos” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 12–18 months
About this activity
Activity: Looking at family photos. 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:
• Look at family photos and point to each member.
• Recognize your own picture with a gesture.
• Understand what people around you say.
• Name family members.
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 with your baby on a couch or chair
Grab an album or box of family photos, including one of your baby and any pets. Look at each photo together.
2. Name who’s in the photo: “This is Daddy.” Ask, “Where’s Daddy
Show me!” If your baby’s confused, point and repeat: “This is Daddy!” Then ask again: “Where’s Daddy?
3. Try this together
If your baby already knows family members by name, ask: “Who’s this?” Praise them and move on to the next photo.
4. Try this together
When you show a photo of your baby, guide them to indicate it’s them by placing a hand on their chest.
5. After viewing all the photos, let your little one explore the box or album on their own
After viewing all the photos, let your little one explore the box or album 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.