New Research: Enhancing Bedtime Routines and Beyond

by Dr. Amanda Gummer | View Bio

Dr. Amanda Gummer

Dr. Amanda Gummer has over 20 years experience working with children and families. Widely considered as THE go to expert on play, toys and child development, Amanda combines her theoretical knowledge with a refreshingly pragmatic approach to family life, that resonates both with parents and professionals.

Her book ‘Play’ was published in May 2105 and has already been translated into two different languages.

Amanda is regularly in the media, and continues to take an active role in research. She is often involved in government policy around children’s issues, rand is a member of two All Party Parliamentary Groups.

Amanda ran the research consultancy FUNdamentals for 10 years before combining that with the Good Toy Guide, and the Good App Guide to create Fundamentally Children, the UK’s leading source of expert, independent advice on child development and play, supporting children’s industries with research, insight and endorsement.

In the ever-evolving landscape of children's play and development, innovation continues to open doors to new possibilities. The recent emergence of the multi-award winning Toniebox has captured the attention of both parents and experts alike.

Bedtime routines are often regarded as a cornerstone of healthy child development, fostering feelings of security, and setting the stage for a restful night's sleep. Our research study, involving 100 families, uncovered a significant improvement in bedtime routines when Tonies and the Toniebox were integrated into the nightly ritual. Astonishingly, 92% of parents who reported that bedtime was a struggle found that including Tonies in bedtime routines improved them, attributing this transformation to the captivating and engaging audio content provided by the Toniebox.

But what sets the Toniebox apart? Each "Tonie" character contains carefully curated stories, songs, and educational content that captivate young minds and spark their imagination. This seamless integration of technology and storytelling has been shown to not only capture children's attention but also provide parents with a new tool to weave creativity and bonding into their nighttime routine.

While the Toniebox's impact on bedtime routines is striking, our study unveiled an additional layer of its benefits: the remarkable enhancement of children's cognitive skills. Children's attention during reading improved by an average of 6%, a testament to the captivating nature of the Tonies' content. By engaging children in stories that are not only auditory but also interactive, the Toniebox fosters sustained focus, a skill with far-reaching implications for their academic journey.

Comprehension, a fundamental pillar of literacy, experienced a remarkable boost with an average improvement of 13% among participants. The combination of auditory storytelling and interactive engagement facilitated by the Toniebox creates a multisensory learning experience that cements the understanding of plot, character dynamics, and vocabulary. This innovative approach to learning through play has the potential to reshape how children engage with narratives, setting a strong foundation for their reading comprehension skills.

Central to the Toniebox's success is its ability to integrate technology with physical interaction. Unlike traditional screens, which often passively deliver content, the Toniebox encourages children to actively participate in their play and learning. This hands-on approach not only reinforces fine motor skills but also nurtures a deeper connection between children and the stories they engage with.

The Toniebox's tangible figurines provide a bridge between the digital and physical realms, fostering a sense of ownership and agency over the content. This empowerment encourages children to explore and engage with stories repeatedly, reinforcing their understanding and allowing them to actively shape their learning journey. As a result, the Toniebox cultivates a love for learning that extends beyond the device itself.

Quality bonding time between parents and children is more crucial than ever. The Toniebox acts as a catalyst for these meaningful interactions. Through shared listening experiences, parents have the opportunity to connect with their children on a deeper level, creating memories that are built around stories, laughter, and imaginative exploration.

Bedtime, traditionally reserved for quiet moments of connection, takes on a new dimension with the Toniebox. Instead of being simply part of a routine, it becomes a cherished time for families to unwind, engage, and create lasting memories. The Toniebox's ability to bridge the generation gap through its diverse content ensures that parents and children can share in the joy of storytelling together.

The Toniebox's journey from innovation to a staple of modern parenting has been remarkable, and its impact on children's development and family life is truly noteworthy. Our comprehensive 6-month study revealed that regular engagement with Tonies and the Toniebox not only enhances bedtime routines but also contributes to cognitive growth, reading comprehension, and strengthened family bonds. This blend of technology, play, and connection has the potential to revolutionise how families approach storytelling and interactive learning.

As parents, we are constantly seeking ways to enrich our children's lives while nurturing the precious moments we share. The Toniebox is increasingly recognised by parents as a tangible solution that combines the best of both worlds, cleverly combining education, play, and bonding into the fabric of everyday life. With each Tonie character, a new adventure begins, sparking curiosity, inspiring creativity, and creating a treasure trove of memories that will be cherished for years to come.

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