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  /  Summer of Play 2026 | Play Ideas, Activities & Expert-Reviewed Toys

Summer of Play Introducing Explore the Guide Everything for a good summer in one place: play ideas, activities and expert-reviewed product picks, all tested by real children and checked by our experts.

The summer holidays are long, and “I’m bored” tends to arrive faster than any parent expects. The Summer of Play guide is here to help. It brings together toys, games and activities for children from babies to age 11, alongside free play ideas you can set up at home with very little fuss. Everything is chosen the same way: tested by real children in real play and reviewed by our team of child development experts, so you can spend less of the summer guessing and more of it enjoying. Browse our summer favourites, try a few play ideas, and find what works for your family.

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How We Choose What Makes The Guide

Every recommendation on this page has been through the Good Play Guide testing process. Real children play with each product in natural settings, and our child development experts assess how well it supports play, learning and fun. We have helped over 100,000 parents find the right toys since 2012, and the approach is always the same: independent, evidence-led and focused on what genuinely works for children.

Our Summer Favourites

A handpicked selection of toys and games made for sunny days, active play and rainy-afternoon rescue. Each one has been tested by children and reviewed by our experts, so you know it earns its place in the toy box.

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Free Summer Play Ideas & Activities

You don’t need to buy a thing to keep children busy. Our play ideas are free, simple and built around how children actually learn through play. Get outdoors with summer science activities, encourage independent play for the moments you need five minutes, or find play ideas for children with SEND. For a healthy balance of screens, activity and downtime across the holidays, our Balanced Play Diet is a good place to start.

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Why Summer Play Matters

Our experts share their favourite picks and summer play tips throughout the season. Browse the latest articles below.

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[qodef_banner type=”boxed” info_position=”centered” title_tag=”” target=”_blank” image=”25730″ title=”Summer play ideas to keep cool” title_color=”#da0d15″ link=”https://www.goodplayguide.com/blog/heatwave-for-uk-summer-play-ideas-to-keep-cool/”]
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[qodef_banner type=”boxed” info_position=”centered” title_tag=”” target=”_blank” image=”25978″ title=”Learning to Play Together” title_color=”#da0d15″ link=”https://www.goodplayguide.com/blog/learning-to-play-together-how-play-builds-social-skills-and-friendships/”]

Summer of Play FAQs

Who is the Summer of Play guide for?

Parents and carers of children from babies to around age 11, looking for toys, games and activities worth their time over the summer holidays.

How are the Products chosen?

Every product is tested by real children in natural play and reviewed by our child development experts. Recommendations are independent and evidence-led.

Are the Play Ideas Free?

Yes. The play ideas and activities are free to use at home, with no purchase needed.

When does the Summer of Play run?

Across the summer holidays, with new picks and articles added through July and August.