Engaging Speech and Language Activities for Children with Down Syndrome During the Christmas Season

Christmas is a wonderful opportunity to engage in fun and meaningful activities that promote speech and language development for children with Down syndrome. Here are some creative ideas to make the most of this festive time!

Father Christmas and his Christmas tree

1. Christmas Storytime

Reading holiday-themed books can enhance vocabulary and comprehension by choosing stories with vibrant illustrations and simple texts. After reading, discuss the characters and events, encouraging children to express their thoughts and feelings about the story.

Eric Carle's book 'Dream Snow' features lovely illustrations that captivate children:

https://eric-carle.com/eric-carle-book-gallery/dream-snow-2000/

2. Holiday Songs and Rhymes

Singing Christmas holiday songs is a joyful way to develop language skills. Familiar tunes encourage participation and help with memory. Incorporate gestures or movements to reinforce words and concepts. You can also pause and let your child fill in the gaps. For example sing “Rudolph the red nose – pause – reindeer” and let your child complete the phrase.

3. Crafting Christmas Cards

Making handmade Christmas cards is an exciting way to promote language use. Encourage your child to use full sentences, such as "I wish you a happy Christmas."

Emmet decorating a card

 4. Christmas Charades

This game is a fun way to practice expressive language and social skills. Use holiday-themed prompts, such as "decorating a tree" or "building a snowman." Encourage your child to act out the prompts.

Christmas games

5. Decorating with Intent

Engage your child by discussing the vibrant colors and various shapes of ornaments and lights. This is a great vocabulary building task. You could even play a game of "I spy" with the decorations or give directions like “find me the small yellow star inside the red box”.

Decorating a tree

6. Holiday Baking

Use simple recipes and encourage children to follow instructions. Give verbal instructions and break them down to suit your child's needs. Discuss the ingredients, measurements, and actions involved. This not only builds vocabulary but also reinforces sequencing skills.

Festive baking

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas!

Brίd O’Connell, SLT at DSCNE

Snowmen decorations