How can I play “Where are our feet?” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 0–5 months
About this activity
Activity: “Where are our feet?” — 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:
• Watch the adult’s face and listen carefully.
• Feel your own body position.
• Baby can start lifting their legs.
• Communicate and interact with the adult.
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. During diaper changes, don’t rush to put on a new one
Let your baby lie there with bare legs for a while.
2. Make eye contact and gently talk
Lift their legs: “Where are those little feet?
3. Hold their ankle in one hand
Use the thumb of your other hand to rub their foot in gentle clockwise circles.
4. Blow softly on your child’s feet and kiss them
The more varied sensations your child feels from an adult’s touch, the better.
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.