How can I play “Washing up” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 12–18 months
About this activity
Activity: Washing up. 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:
• Remember the steps for hand-washing when reminded.
• React to the water’s temperature.
• Connect the grown-up’s words with what’s happening.
• Wash your hands and face while standing.
• Dry yourself off.
• Turn the lights on and off.
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. Say, “Time to wash—splish-splash!” Help them turn on the bathroom light
Say, “Time to wash—splish-splash!” Help them turn on the bathroom light.
2. Help your baby stand on the little stool
Help your baby stand on the little stool.
3. Try this together
Turn on the water and adjust it: “Here’s nice warm water—bloop-bloop!” Invite your baby: “Get your hands wet!
4. Invite your baby to take the soap from the dish and lather up: “Soap your hands
We’re washing—bubble-bubble!” (gesture by rubbing palms).
5. Once they’re done, slide the soap dish closer: “Put the soap here
Once they’re done, slide the soap dish closer: “Put the soap here.
6. Suggest: “Wash your face!” Show them how to cup and move their hands down their face
Let them splash in the water, then turn off the tap: “your child is nice and clean now!
7. Try this together
Give your child a towel and help them dry their face and hands: “Take it—wipe your face and hands.” Help hang the towel. Help turn off the light.
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.