Overview

“Well organised and engaging…The children brought a lot of information back to class” (Teacher from Alderman Jacobs)

Peterborough Museum has a large selection of toys dating back from Victorian times to the 1970s - perfect for topics looking at playtime, childhood and materials.

In this session, take a look at a number of toys from our collection. What is it made from? How does it work?  How does it compare to other toys within living memory? Then following further exploration with real and replica toys and games through enquiry-based play and discussion, have a go at making a toy, using a toy from our collection as inspiration.

Click to find out more and about additional activities, including The Magic Toyshop drama activity and our Toy Trail around the museum.

National Curriculum links:  History, English, Science, Art.

Learning objectives:

Participating in these Toys from the Past activities, pupils will:

• Develop an awareness of the past by identifying and discussing changes in toys and games over time.
• Be able to identify and discuss similarities and differences between old and modern toys and games.
• Develop an understanding of how old toys can help us find out about the past.
• Listen and respond appropriately to adults and their peers.
• Speak audibly and fluently when sharing ideas and observations.
• Identify and name a variety of everyday materials that the toys are made of.
• Describe the simple physical properties of each material from looking carefully at the toys.
• Identify and compare the  suitability of a variety of everyday materials.
• Understand simple forces such as push and pulls when describing how a toy moves.
• Develop creative skills in select from a range of materials to produce a replica Victorian pop-up toy.

Can't come to us? We'll come to you?

Ask us about our outreach version of this school session