Nurturing Independence in Children with Down Syndrome: Home Activities

At GiGi’s Playhouse, we believe in empowering our children. Here’s a quick guide to fostering independence in your child with Down syndrome:

1. Daily Routines: Use visuals for tasks like brushing teeth and dressing. Involve them in meal prep, like washing veggies or setting the table.
2. Organized Play: Label bins with pictures/words for toys and books. Encourage cleanup after play.
3. Practical Skills: Introduce pouring, transferring, buttoning, and zipping exercises.
4. Puzzles: Boost cognitive skills and patience with age-appropriate puzzles.
5. Self-Help Board: List daily tasks with visuals. Celebrate milestones with reward stickers.
6. Gardening: Assign responsibilities like watering or planting seeds.
7. Arts & Crafts: Drawing, coloring, and craftwork can boost creativity and fine motor skills.
8. Role-Playing: Set up stations like ‘grocery store’ or ‘post office’ for imaginative play.
9. Physical Activity: Create obstacle courses or dance sessions to improve gross motor skills.
10. Money Management: Use play money for basic financial concepts in a home ‘store’.
11. Reading Corner: Have a variety of books and encourage independent ‘reading’.
12. Cook Together: Boost confidence with simple recipes.
13. Timer Tasks: Use timers to make tasks like ‘cleaning up’ fun and efficient.

Remember, every child’s pace is unique. Keep activities fun and celebrate every achievement. We’re here for support at GiGi’s Playhouse!

We invite YOU to join us at GiGi’s Playhouse where cost is never a barrier to achievement. All our programs are offered completely FREE. Please visit our online calendar and feel free to reach out to us with any questions. Tampa@GiGisPlayhouse.org 813-544-8000

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