What is the Solid Magnetic Polydron Essential Shapes Set?

The Solid Magnetic Polydron Essential Shapes Set (code 50-9200) is a 104-piece magnetic construction kit from Polydron for children aged 3 and over. It contains 36 squares, 36 equilateral triangles, 12 pentagons and 20 hexagons, plus a model guide. Every piece is magnetic, and the set is made from ABS plastic with 70% recycled content.

What can children build with the Essential Shapes Set?

With four different shapes and 104 pieces, children can move beyond simple cubes and pyramids to more complex 3D solids. Pentagons and hexagons open up models such as dodecahedra and hexagonal prisms. Each square measures 6 x 6 cm. Polydron describes this as the set for teaching geometry, construction and polarity to larger groups of children. Colour coding in four bright colours helps children learn which edges attract, and the set is compatible with Magnetic Polydron.

For schools

• 104 pieces give larger groups enough shapes to build at the same time in EYFS, KS1 and KS2.
• Supports maths teaching on 2D and 3D shape, nets, faces, edges and vertices.
• Concrete models support Quality First Teaching before pupils move to pictures and diagrams.
• Works well in SEND provision and maths intervention groups.
• Can be sterilised with an alcohol-based sanitiser, which helps with shared use.

For parents and home use

• Lets children explore four shape types through open-ended building at home.
• Magnetic edges make joining easy, so children build with growing confidence.
• Picking up and placing pieces supports fine motor development.
• The model guide gives parents ready-made ideas to start with.
• Suitable from age 3 with adult supervision, as the pieces contain magnets.

Supporting learners with SEND and learning differences

Hands-on construction helps many learners with SEND and learning differences make sense of shape and space. With Solid Magnetic Polydron, children can hold a hexagon, count its sides and see how it joins to other shapes. The magnets guide pieces into place, and the colours give clear visual cues. Building and unfolding nets turns abstract geometry into something concrete that children can repeat at their own pace.

The Solid Magnetic Polydron Essential Shapes Set is available to order from The Dyslexia Shop, a UK specialist in resources for SEND and learning differences, for classrooms, nurseries and homes.