Year 1 History – Toys through time

In Year 1, the children have been developing their early historical skills by exploring the theme of toys through time. Their learning was guided by a series of enquiry questions that helped them think like young historians:

  • What are our toys like today?
  • What are other people’s toys like?
  • How can we tell these toys are old?
  • Have children always played with the same toys?
  • What were our grandparents’ toys like and how do we know?

Through discussion, hands‑on exploration and lots of curiosity, the children compared a range of toys from the past and present. They sorted toys into ‘old’ and ‘new’, looking closely at materials, design and how they worked. This helped them talk confidently about what has stayed the same over time and what has changed.

To bring all their learning together, the children designed and created their own toys from the past, thinking carefully about how to make them look authentic. They then proudly set up their very own toy museum, showcasing their creations and sharing what they had learned.

What The Student Says

"The teddy bear is old because it is dirty and has fluff coming out of it." - Student 1

"The doll is old because it is creepy." - Student 2

"The train is old because it is made from wood and it is rusty." - Student 3

What knowledge and skills have been developed?

Ask and answer questions.

Chronological understanding.

Similarities and differences.

Historical enquiry.

 

What the Teacher says

It has been wonderful to see the year 1 children approach each enquiry question with curiosity and enthusiasm, asking thoughtful questions and sharing their own ideas about how toys have changed over time. Their ability to compare old and new toys, spot similarities and differences, and explain their thinking has really impressed us!

The highlight was watching them bring all their learning together by designing and making their own ‘toys from the past’. Their creativity and attention to detail shone through, and they were so proud to display their work in our very own toy museum. A fantastic effort from everyone — well done, Year 1!

Miss Duncan

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