
Dr Amanda Gummer
Dr Amanda Gummer has a PhD in Neuropsychology, the Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education and more than 20 years’ experience working with children and families. As such, she is renowned as an expert on all aspects of child development, including toys and play. In 2012, she founded The Good Play Guide, an independent, expert accreditation service for children’s products, including toys, apps and more.
Latest articles by Dr Amanda Gummer
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Top 3 benefits of 'rough’ play and why it’s important, by a child development expertNot a big fan of that play fighting just before bed? Learn to embrace it...
By Dr Amanda Gummer Published
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Sick of telling your kids to 'go and play'? They don’t know how to, says child development expertPlay is a learned trait - try these 10 tips to boost play skills,
By Dr Amanda Gummer Published
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Avoid the 'summer slide' with these 4 ways to keep kids learning, by a child development expertKids can lose two years off reading age during school holidays, says new study
By Dr Amanda Gummer Published
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"I resent packing for the family" - Expert shares 3 clever tips for kids to pack their own suitcasePlus six ways to make it stress-free
By Dr Amanda Gummer Published
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Calming music for kids to listen to if they're feeling stressed out and anxiousPlaying calming music for children experiencing stress or anxiety can have many calming benefits. Here's what the experts say, and some soothing tunes to try.
By Lucy Wigley Last updated
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Struggling to keep the kids entertained? Turns out, your child being 'bored' might be the best thing for them, says a child development expertBy Dr Amanda Gummer Published
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Why do boys go for trucks and girls prefer dolls? Child development and play expert explains all (it might surprise you)Why do boys go for trucks and girls prefer dolls? Child development and play expert explains all (it might surprise you)
By Dr Amanda Gummer Published
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The 3 stages of play every parent needs to know to save their sanity (and you're probably nailing #2)By Dr Amanda Gummer Published
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Does your child have a balanced play diet? Research psychologist reveals what this is and why your kid might need oneIt's not all fun and games - play is a crucial part of childhood....
By Dr Amanda Gummer Published
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Is your kid lining up toys and repeating actions? Here are four expert-approved ways to support autistic playGoodToKnow expert panellist Dr Amanda Gummer shares game-changing tips
By Dr Amanda Gummer Published
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15 best stacking and nesting toys for babies and toddlers - and why your little one loves them so muchAs well as being a great form of play, the best stacking and nesting toys are key for your infant's development too
By Sarah Handley Published
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Active toys vs passive toys - who really knows the difference? Well, a toy expert does and we get the low down on all the benefits (plus the 6 best buys)Should we favour active toys over passive toys - and which ones are better for our kids' development?
By Joanne Lewsley Published
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Sensory play is more important than we may think - we ask the experts and here are their 12 benefits of stimulating activitiesSensory play - what is it, how to do it, and the 9 benefits of stimulating activities
By Kat Storr Last updated
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Best toys for 9 year olds in 2026: 16 games to shop right nowWe've compiled a list of the best toys for 9 year olds that will keep them entertained around the clock — there really is something for everybody
By Emily Peck Last updated
