How can I play “Name the pictures” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 12–18 months
About this activity
Activity: Name the pictures. 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:
• Name pictures and photos in your own way.
• Talk with an adult.
• Carefully pick up cards one by one and name them.
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. In a box or album, gather only the pictures your baby can name (in their own way)
Then sit on the couch or chair together and look at them.
2. Let your baby choose the picture order
Look at each one: “Who’s this? What is it? What’s it doing?” Could be your grown-up, Daddy, Grandma, Grandpa, dog (woof), cat (meow), hen (cluck), pig (oink). Try simple scenes or photos: “Sleeping—night-night,” “Eating—yum-yum,” “Falling—boom,” “Driving—vroom!
3. Keep praising your baby: repeat the babbling word and give the grown-up word
“Yes, that’s the hen—cluck-cluck-cluck. Yes, Teddy’s driving the car—vroom!
4. After looking at all the pictures, let your baby explore the cards on their own
After looking at all the pictures, let your baby explore the cards 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.