How Can I Make Snack-Time Play Safe for My Baby with Down Syndrome?
By Down Syndrome Digital ·
Suggested age: 6–10 months
What is the “Baby Cookie Time!” activity?
The workbook calls this lesson “Baby Cookie Time!” and lists it for ages 6–10 months. We have adapted it as a safer snack-time interaction: the name is not a recommendation to give a baby a cookie. Only offer foods and textures that your baby’s clinician or feeding specialist has approved for them.
What can this activity invite?
• Looking at a food that is already part of the baby’s feeding plan
• Sharing a calm mealtime routine
• Communicating through a look, reach, sound, or pause
• Exploring at the baby’s own pace, if that is part of their plan
What do I need for this snack-time activity?
Use an appropriate, stable feeding seat and only a food and texture in your baby’s individual feeding plan. Follow professional advice about serving size, preparation, and whether your baby should self-feed or use a spoon.
How do I play safe snack-time together?
1. Check what is appropriate
Confirm that your baby is ready for the food and texture you plan to offer. If you do not have a feeding plan or are unsure, ask your baby’s clinician or feeding specialist first.
2. Set up a safe mealtime
Seat your awake baby upright and securely in an appropriate feeding chair. Follow the chair instructions, stay within arm’s reach, and keep the food out of reach until you are ready to supervise the activity.
3. Show the planned food
Place only a small amount of an approved food in front of your baby, prepared as recommended for them. Pause so your baby can look or show interest.
4. Follow your baby’s plan and cues
Offer food only in the way your baby’s care team has recommended. Let your baby look or reach if appropriate, and pause when they turn away or close their mouth. Never push food or a spoon into their mouth.
5. Finish calmly
Stop when your baby has had enough or loses interest. Stay with them throughout eating, then clean the area and store food safely.
How do I keep this activity safe?
Never leave a baby alone with food, and do not offer food in a bouncer, while lying down, or in a moving seat. Use the upright position and food preparation recommended for your baby. Stop and follow your care team’s guidance if you notice coughing, choking, breathing or colour changes, or distress.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a regular cookie for this activity?
Not automatically. The source lesson’s name does not mean a cookie is suitable. Use only foods and textures approved for your baby.
Is a “dissolvable” snack safe for every baby?
No. A label does not replace your baby’s individual feeding plan or supervision.
What if my baby only looks at the food?
That is fine. There is no need to prompt a bite or reach; follow your baby’s cues and end when they are ready.