How can I play “Peek-a-boo with baby” with my child?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 2–5 months
About this activity
Activity: Peek-a-boo with baby. a short, child-led play idea for children with Down syndrome aged 2–5 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 forward to social time and join in shared play.
• React to others’ emotions, smile back when they talk to you.
• Make sounds yourself, and by copying others.
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. Place your baby in a bouncer seat (about a 45° incline) or lay them on your tilted legs
Attract their attention by talking and smiling. Watch until they show interest in your face
2. Cover your face with your hands, saying “Peekaboo, where’s your grown-up
Cover your face with your hands, saying “Peekaboo, where’s your grown-up?
3. Reveal your face gently: “Peek-a-boo, here I am!” Repeat 3–4 times, avoiding sudden moves
Reveal your face gently: “Peek-a-boo, here I am!” Repeat 3–4 times, avoiding sudden moves.
4. Take your baby’s hands in yours and use them to cover your eyes: “Hide me
Peekaboo!
5. Use your baby’s hands to open and cover your face: “Here I am
Use your baby’s hands to open and cover your face: “Here I am!
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.