How can I play “Going out for a walk” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 12–18 months
About this activity
Activity: Going out for a walk. 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:
• Walk while holding something that can move (like a push toy).
• Use one hand for support when walking.
• Bend and squat with support.
• Put objects in a box.
• Observe the actions of those around, the games of other children.
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. Set a walker-cart on a park path, or use a regular stroller if you’d like
Set a walker-cart on a park path, or use a regular stroller if you’d like.
2. Help your baby grip the walker: “Here we go!” Guide it so it doesn’t roll too fast
Help your baby grip the walker: “Here we go!” Guide it so it doesn’t roll too fast.
3. Pause every so often and point out what’s happening around
“There goes a little dog.” “A bird is pecking at seeds.” “There are kids playing.
4. Try this together
Encourage your baby to hold onto a cart with one hand and lean down to pick up sticks, leaves, or chestnuts. Comment: “What a pretty leaf—put it in the bucket!” At home, look at and talk about all these new finds.
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.