Children in Key Stage 1 are beginning to read, explore basic science, and make sense of the wider world. The best gifts for this age group spark curiosity and support what they’re already learning at school. Here are our top five picks for KS1.
1. Story Time Chess — £29.99
A storybook-based approach to learning chess that makes the world’s greatest strategy game accessible for children from age 5. Each chess piece has its own character and story that explains how it moves – making the rules stick naturally. Story Time Chess builds strategic thinking, logical reasoning and patience in KS1 and KS2 learners.
Curriculum link: Supports KS1/KS2 – Maths/PSHE: Strategic Thinking, Logic and Problem Solving
2. Bee Genius — £19.99
A hexagonal spatial reasoning puzzle with a bee theme. Players fill their honeycomb grid with hexagonal pieces after blockers are placed – building spatial awareness, shape recognition and logical thinking in a fun nature-inspired format. A great introduction to the Genius Collection for younger players aged 6 and above.
Curriculum link: Supports KS1/KS2 – Maths: Spatial Reasoning, Shape and Logic
3. Skillmatics Sentence Search – Grammar and Sentence Building Game — £14.99
A hands-on word and sentence building game with 140+ colour-coded tiles representing different parts of speech. Children pick, play and build sentences their own way – developing grammar, vocabulary and writing confidence. Ages 5-8.
Curriculum link: Supports KS1 – English: Grammar, Sentence Structure and Parts of Speech
4. National Geographic Kids Little Kids First Big Book of Science — £12.99
A large-format illustrated reference introducing young children to the wonders of science. Covers animals, plants, earth, weather and space with stunning National Geographic photography and simple explanations.
Curriculum link: Supports KS1/KS2 – Science: Natural World, Animals and Earth Science
5. CGP Times Tables Flashcards – Up to 12 x 12 — £9.99
A colourful set of times tables flashcards from CGP covering all tables up to 12×12. Perfect for quick-fire practice at home – an essential revision tool for the KS2 Multiplication Tables Check and building number fluency from KS1.
Curriculum link: Supports KS1/KS2 – Maths: Times Tables and Multiplication Facts
Choosing gifts that support the KS1 curriculum
Key Stage 1 covers ages 5 to 7 and includes subjects such as English, maths, science, geography and design and technology. Toys and gifts that connect to these subjects reinforce classroom learning in a natural, playful way — and children rarely even notice they’re learning.