How can I play “Let’s see who’s around” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 0–5 months
About this activity
Activity: Let’s see who’s around. 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:
• Look at the adult’s face, then switch your gaze to someone else.
• Lie on your tummy, propped on your elbows.
• Raise and keep your head up.
• Learn where you are in space.
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. Lay your baby on a changing table or any surface with a mat or blanket
Position them on their tummy so their elbows are level with or a bit in front of their shoulders (“functional elbow support”). This helps build arm and upper body strength.
2. Sit at your baby’s eye level
Get them to focus on your face—call their name, talk sweetly, smile.
3. Lift your baby’s chin with your palm to help them keep their head up
Keep talking to them.
4. Ask another adult or child to sit next to you
Pause your speech so your play partner can draw the baby’s attention.
5. You can gently blow on your baby’s face
Keep your palm under their chin to help them shift their gaze without dropping their head.
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.