How can I play “Standing tall” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 0–5 months
About this activity
Activity: Standing tall. a short, child-led play idea for children with Down syndrome aged 0–5 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:
• After a meal, baby feels better—this position helps release gas.
• Practice holding your head upright.
• Focus on a high-contrast item or image—good for vision development.
• Having an adult hold you upright helps you sense and control your body better.
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. Try this together
While supporting your baby’s head, gently turn them upright so their chin rests on your shoulder. Use one hand for their head, the other for their bottom. Let their arms hang out on your shoulders. Worried about spit-up? Just pop a clean cloth on your shoulder!
2. Support your baby as you move slowly around the room, softly stroking their back
Support your baby as you move slowly around the room, softly stroking their back.
3. Try this together
Walk up to a bright, high-contrast object in the room and turn so it stays in your baby’s view. Stand for a moment and name the toy or picture.
4. Move around the room slowly, going from one object to another
Move around the room slowly, going from one object to another.
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.