National charity Family Action has teamed up with Fisher Price Play lab to support families to play together over the  summer.

Launched by actor and radio presenter Gemma Atkinson and her daughter, the Creating Happy Memories initiative offers parents and carers expert guidance and practical ideas to help them enjoy more play with the children in their lives.

In contrast to the shiny plastic toys Fisher Price is known for, resources include ideas for summer play activities with sand, mud and junk materials as well as tips on embracing risk and mess.

Early childhood expert Dr Jacqueline Harding from Middlesex University said that 10 minutes of simple focused playtime with children can be as beneficial to them as a day trip to the zoo. She said:

The good news is that what your young child or older children want is social interaction, and that’s free. So don’t fear a child saying they’re bored, because children will be their best selves during play.

She added: “There’s a whole variety of play… called malleable play, play with painting, jumping in mud and all that sort of thing. But afterwards, don’t expect to have a perfect house.”

You can access the resources for free on the Family Action website.