Small Steps Online:
0-3 Months
The first few months with your baby can be a mix of
wonder, questions, and uncertainty—especially if your child has Down syndrome.
Small Steps Online is here to guide you through these early
days with confidence, care, and expert-backed support.
How This Module Helps Your Baby Thrive
Start Small Steps today and give your baby the best start, one step at a time.
#Assess | #Practice | #Achieve
Module Overview:
Gross Motor Skills
In this module, you’ll learn how to gently support your baby’s early physical development—from head control to tummy time. With simple, practical activities, we’ll guide you in helping your baby build strength, body awareness, and coordination in those all-important early weeks. Every small movement lays the foundation for future milestones, and we’ll show you how to make the most of this stage in a supportive, step-by-step way.
Fine Motor Skills
This module focuses on supporting your baby’s earliest hand and finger movements—like opening their hands, reaching out, and beginning to explore the world through touch. You’ll discover simple, nurturing activities to encourage sensory awareness and hand-eye coordination, laying the groundwork for future skills like grasping, holding, and playing. These gentle first steps are all about connection and curiosity.
Communication Skills
In this module, we explore how your baby begins to connect with you through sounds, eye contact, and early vocalisations. You’ll learn how to respond to your baby’s cues and encourage two-way interaction, even before words come into play. These early moments of shared attention and cooing are the building blocks for future language and meaningful relationships.
Receptive Language
This module focuses on how your baby begins to listen and make sense of the world through sound. You’ll learn how to support your baby's developing understanding by using simple language, tone, and facial expressions in everyday routines. These small steps lay the foundation for future comprehension and meaningful communication.
Personal & Social Skills
In this module, we look at how your baby starts to build trust and emotional connection through early bonding moments. You’ll discover how to nurture your baby’s sense of security, support early social interactions, and create a loving environment where your baby can thrive—emotionally and socially.
Disclaimer: The information provided on Small Steps Online is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, therapeutic, or developmental advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers, therapists, or relevant professionals regarding your child’s specific needs and situation. The September Institute and Small Steps Online are not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or misuse of the information shared here.
Meet the #DownTeam
Ashley May
Ashley Rodgers is a dedicated physiotherapist based in Cape Town, South Africa, with a special passion for working with children. She graduated with a BSc in Physiotherapy from the University of Cape Town in 2017 and went on to complete her Community Service at the renowned Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital. It was during her time there that her deep interest in paediatrics truly took root.
In 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashley opened her own private practice focused exclusively on paediatric physiotherapy, where she supports children with a wide range of gross motor challenges. Her commitment to learning and advancing the field continued with the completion of a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Witwatersrand. Her research explored the relationship between physical activity and gross motor development in children aged 4–6 living in Cape Town.Ashley is certified in both MAES therapy and General Movements Assessment, and she is currently completing the SANDTA Neurodevelopmental Therapy Course. Beyond her academic and professional achievements,
Ashley treasures her role as a mother to a lively toddler—a journey that, she says, has taught her more than any degree ever could. This lived experience deepens her empathy and commitment to helping children and families thrive.
Ashley treasures her role as a mother to a lively toddler—a journey that, she says, has taught her more than any degree ever could. This lived experience deepens her empathy and commitment to helping children and families thrive.
Nikita Oosthuizen
Nikita is a communications specialist with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Communication Management from North-West University in South Africa, where she specialised in communication for social change.
With a background in both the private and non-profit sectors, she spent three years working with the United Nations in communications and fundraising—collaborating closely with beneficiaries, donors, and high-profile individuals. She was also part of a team leading a campaign to shift societal narratives around people who are different.
Passionate about helping others and creating inclusive spaces, she believes every person has a unique purpose that flourishes with the right guidance and support.
Today, she brings that vision to life in her role as Communications & Program Manager at Small Steps Online and The September Institute.
With a background in both the private and non-profit sectors, she spent three years working with the United Nations in communications and fundraising—collaborating closely with beneficiaries, donors, and high-profile individuals. She was also part of a team leading a campaign to shift societal narratives around people who are different.
Passionate about helping others and creating inclusive spaces, she believes every person has a unique purpose that flourishes with the right guidance and support.
Today, she brings that vision to life in her role as Communications & Program Manager at Small Steps Online and The September Institute.
#DownTeam
Nikita Oosthuizen
Communication & Program Manager
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