How can I play “Tracking the toy” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 0–5 months
About this activity
Activity: Tracking the toy. 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:
• Keep your eyes on the adult’s face, then look at the toy.
• Track a moving object with your eyes for spatial skills.
• Find and identify the sound source.
• Turning your head to follow helps strengthen your neck.
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
Repeat the same seating setup if needed: feet on a stool, knees raised, baby’s back on your legs. Keep about 30–40 cm between your faces. Gently hold your baby so they stay comfy.
2. Again, meet their eyes
Smile and speak gently. Take a bright, high-contrast toy about a foot away at their midline. Let your baby focus on it.
3. Slowly move the toy to one side, then the other
If your baby “loses” it, pause and bring their focus back to the toy.
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.