MAGNA-TILES microMAGS LEARN Numbers review: a fun, hands-on way to practise early maths skills

Our verdict

If you're looking for a fun way to introduce early maths skills without making learning feel like a chore, the MAGNA-TILES microMAGS LEARN Numbers set is a brilliant option. Combining the appeal of magnetic building tiles with numbers, counting dots and mathematical symbols, it's a lovely way to encourage learning through play.

I tested the set with my four-year-old over two weeks, and it couldn't have arrived at a better time. She's just started school and is becoming increasingly interested in numbers and counting, so I was keen to find something that would help reinforce those skills at home without feeling too much like schoolwork.

She's already a huge fan of MAGNA-TILES and regularly plays with her larger magnetic building sets, so these were an instant hit. The smaller microMAGS tiles are just as easy to connect and rearrange, but their compact size makes them particularly handy for taking out and about, whether that's on car journeys, holidays or days out.

The only real downside is that there's no storage or travel bag included, which feels like a missed opportunity for a set that's so well suited to portable play. With 56 small pieces, you'll definitely want something to keep them together.

At around £40, they're not the cheapest educational toy, but I think their versatility, portability and potential longevity make them a worthwhile investment, particularly for children who already enjoy magnetic construction toys.

The 56-piece MAGNA-TILES microMAGS LEARN Numbers set is designed for children aged three and over.

How we tested

I tested the MAGNA-TILES microMAGS LEARN Numbers set at home over two weeks with my four-year-old, who had recently started Reception.

She's already very familiar with MAGNA-TILES, having played with the larger magnetic building sets for some time, so I was interested to see how she'd respond to a more educational version designed specifically to support early maths skills.

During testing, I looked at how engaging she found the tiles, how easy they were to handle and use, and whether they encouraged her to practise counting and number recognition. I also considered their quality and durability, versatility, portability, suitability for different ages and overall value for money.

The set includes 56 magnetic tiles and an activity booklet with ideas for practising number recognition, counting and matching.

What's in the box?

The MAGNA-TILES microMAGS LEARN Numbers set contains 56 magnetic tiles:

• 42 tiles featuring numbers and counting-dot designs

• 14 tiles featuring mathematical symbols

The number tiles feature blue and red designs, while the mathematical symbols are purple, making it easy to distinguish between the different types. The tiles include numbers from zero to 10, matching dot representations and symbols that can be used to explore addition, subtraction and comparisons. Each tile measures approximately 3.8 × 3.8cm, making them half the width of traditional MAGNA-TILES pieces.

The packaging is fairly straightforward, but the set comes with a booklet containing ideas for getting started with the tiles, which is a useful addition for parents looking for inspiration for number-based activities.

Are MAGNA-TILES microMAGS LEARN Numbers easy to use?

Yes, particularly if your child is already familiar with magnetic building toys. There's no complicated set-up or rules to explain, which is a big part of their appeal.

My daughter has been playing with larger MAGNA-TILES sets for some time, so she immediately knew what to do with these. Although the microMAGS pieces are smaller than traditional tiles, she had no difficulty handling them, and they connect together just as easily.

The colourful designs are appealing, with clear numbers and dots that can be used for counting. I particularly like the dice-style tiles, which give younger children a visual way to understand numbers rather than simply recognising the digits.

There's also no single correct way to play. Children can use the tiles independently or alongside a parent, depending on their age, ability and confidence with numbers.

My four-year-old enjoyed incorporating the number tiles into her magnetic creations during two weeks of testing.

Are MAGNA-TILES microMAGS LEARN Numbers good for learning?

Absolutely, and I think this is where the set really comes into its own. Rather than relying on worksheets or structured activities, it makes practising early maths skills feel like an extension of everyday play.

The number tiles can be arranged in sequence to practise number order, while the dice-style dot tiles allow children to count objects visually and match them to the corresponding number.

As children become more confident, the mathematical symbols add another dimension. They can be used to introduce addition and subtraction, as well as concepts such as greater than, less than and equal to.

I also like that the set isn't limited to maths. Connecting and arranging the smaller magnetic tiles can help develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, while the open-ended format encourages children to experiment and problem-solve.

Of course, how much children get out of the set will depend on their age and ability. Three-year-olds may need more guidance, while older children can tackle more challenging activities independently.

The colourful dot tiles help children practise counting and matching quantities to numbers, with a compact design that's ideal for play on the go.

Do MAGNA-TILES microMAGS LEARN Numbers have good play value?

One of the things I really like about MAGNA-TILES generally is how open-ended they are. Unlike toys with a fixed outcome, magnetic tiles can be used in lots of different ways, which helps keep play interesting.

The LEARN Numbers set builds on that idea by introducing an educational element, without taking away the fun of connecting and arranging the pieces.

The compatibility with other MAGNA-TILES sets is another bonus. The microMAGS can be incorporated into larger creations, giving children more opportunities for imaginative play rather than limiting the pieces to number-based activities.

After two weeks of testing, it's too early to say how much long-term use we'll get from the set, but its versatility is promising. For children who already enjoy MAGNA-TILES, it feels like a natural addition to their existing collection.

Are MAGNA-TILES microMAGS LEARN Numbers portable and easy to store?

Absolutely. One of the biggest advantages of the microMAGS design is how compact the tiles are compared with traditional MAGNA-TILES.

Each piece measures half the width of the standard tiles. This means you can take a good selection away from home without needing much space, whether you're packing for a holiday, heading out for the day or looking for something to keep your child occupied in the car.

My only gripe is the lack of a storage bag. With 56 small pieces included, it would have been useful to have a dedicated pouch or case to keep everything together, particularly as the compact design lends itself so well to travel. You'll need to provide your own storage solution if you're planning to take them out regularly.

Who are MAGNA-TILES microMAGS LEARN Numbers best for?

I think this set is particularly well suited to children aged four to six who are beginning to develop their early maths skills, although the manufacturer's recommended age is three and over.

The set would also make a lovely gift for children starting Reception, offering a fun way to support the counting, number recognition and early addition skills they're developing at school.

For younger children, I'd recommend starting with simple number recognition, counting and matching activities before introducing the mathematical symbols. Older children are likely to get more out of the addition, subtraction and comparison elements.

Overall, it's a clever combination of learning and play, and one I'd happily recommend for young MAGNA-TILES fans who are beginning to explore the world of numbers.

The colourful counting-dot tiles can be stacked and arranged in different ways, encouraging hands-on number play.

Are MAGNA-TILES microMAGS LEARN Numbers good value for money?

At an RRP of £40, the MAGNA-TILES microMAGS LEARN Numbers set is relatively expensive compared with basic number puzzles, flashcards and other early learning toys.

However, I think it offers more versatility than many traditional educational toys. With 56 pieces, there are plenty of opportunities for counting, matching, number sequencing and introducing simple sums, while the magnetic design encourages children to experiment and play independently.

The quality is another selling point. Like other MAGNA-TILES products, the pieces are made from durable plastic, with secured magnets and a sturdy construction designed to withstand regular use.

It's a shame there's no storage bag included at this price, but overall, I think the combination of educational benefits, portability and creative play makes them a worthwhile investment for young MAGNA-TILES fans.

About the author

Laura Westerman is Mumsnet's Deputy Head of Editorial Content and a mum to a four-year-old. She's passionate about helping parents find the best products for their families, whatever their needs or budget.

With 10 years' experience in editorial, Laura has extensive knowledge of baby and child products, having written, commissioned and edited countless reviews and buyer's guides covering everything from buggies and car seats to toys and games. She combines her professional expertise with first-hand parenting experience to deliver honest, informative and practical product recommendations.

Laura has also featured in product testing and review videos on Mumsnet's YouTube channel.