How to make sure you’re buying safe toys this Christmas
- Updated for 2025 - With Christmas approaching, it is natural to want to make sure we are buying good quality toys that are going to last well and be safe for our children to explore. Play is a key part
Talking to Teenage Boys: Navigating Emotions, Social Media and Positive Role Models
Netflix’s acclaimed series Adolescence about a teenager accused of killing a schoolmate, dominated this year’s Emmy Awards, taking home six prizes. Its raw portrayal of adolescent struggles with mental health, self-image and online pressures sparked widespread discussions. For many parents,
What the Research Says About School Readiness
Starting school is a big milestone – but what does it really mean to be ready? At Dr Gummer’s Good Play Guide, we believe school readiness goes far beyond knowing letters and numbers. We conducted a literature review to explore the evidence
The Importance of Unstructured Play to Child Development
Children don’t just play for fun – it’s how they learn, grow, and make sense of the world. That’s the big takeaway from the newly published Raising the Nation Commission Report (June 2025), a year-long independent look at how play
Navigating Father’s Day When Dad Isn’t Around
Father’s Day can be a challenging time for children who don’t have a father present in their lives. Whether it’s due to loss, separation, or other circumstances, the absence of a dad can make this day particularly hard. However, with
Travelling With Toddlers
This time of year is ideal for a family with younger children to go away, as rising temperatures, cheaper off-peak travel options, and quieter destinations create the perfect recipe for a holiday. However, travelling with toddlers can be quite daunting,
Heartfuls: Building Emotional-Intelligence Through Play
Emotional intelligence is our ability to identify, understand and manage our own emotions and those of others. It is one of the most important skills a child can develop. It supports well-being, healthy relationships, and success in school and beyond. But
How can parents recognise and address mental health issues in children?
Good mental health is just as important as good physical health and we all want our children to grow up happy and healthy, but unfortunately, anxiety and depression are on the rise in both adults and children. It can be
The Benefits of Outdoor Play
In today’s digital world, encouraging children to step away from screens and play outdoors is more important than ever. Spending time outside offers a wide range of benefits that support children’s physical health, emotional well-being, and social development. From running
How to Choose Apps for Your Child
In today’s digital world, technology plays a big role in children’s learning and entertainment. From educational games to interactive storytelling, apps have the potential to enrich young minds. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming for parents