Slowing Down on Purpose
When I look back on my childhood, it’s not the big days out I remember most — it’s the small, magical ones. The den made with blankets and pegs. The teddy bears lined up for a picnic. The garden treasure hunts with clues scribbled on bits of card. So much joy was created with so little.
Now, as a mum and the maker behind Dolly and Fred, I see how important it is to create space for that kind of play, not just for our children, but for us too.
Why Play Matters More Than Ever
This summer, your children will be navigating big feelings. The end-of-term wobbles, the break from routine, the anticipation of change. And if you're anything like me, the thought of planning a whole summer might already feel overwhelming.
But the truth is, play doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive. It just needs time, space, and a bit of imagination.
I grew up in the 90s on a council estate, one of four children in a home where money was always tight. We didn’t have screens in our pockets or Pinterest-worthy craft cupboards, but what we did have was experiences. We made our own fun. We played outside for hours. We turned garden chairs into buses and strips of paper into treasure maps.
And what I’ve come to realise is that those simple, lived moments shaped me far more than any gadget or big day out could have.
That’s not to say screens don’t have their place (goodness knows they can be a lifeline sometimes!), but this summer, maybe we could choose to be a little more intentional. To rediscover the kind of play that fills hearts, not just time. The kind that builds resilience, connection, and memories that really do last a lifetime.
Making Room for Simple Summer Moments
You don’t need to book out a calendar or spend loads of money to give your child a summer to remember. Some of the most impactful memories come from the simplest acts, drawing with chalk, building a den under the table, turning a note into a “real” letter and posting it to a teddy.
It’s about presence, not perfection.
And giving yourself permission to slow down, let go of the pressure, and just play, even for 15 minutes, is more than enough.
Join Us for a Summer of Play
If you’re looking for a gentle way to bring more ease, joy, and imagination into your summer, I’d love to share something I created with you in mind.
Our Summer of Play printable pack is a free, bingo-style activity guide filled with 25 screen-free, low-cost ideas to spark creativity and connection. You’ll also get tips, prompts, prize ideas, and gentle guidance to help you build your own summer rhythm. With no pressure and no overwhelm.
It’s not a rigid schedule or another thing to add to your overflowing to-do list. It’s a reminder that play matters.
You don’t need to spend loads or plan elaborate outings to give your children a meaningful summer, just a little inspiration and the permission to keep things simple.
👉 Click here to head to the sign-up pages, you can get ready to begin your summer of play