Everything you need to know about Tiny Worlds, our chunky magnetic play pieces made for little hands and big imaginations.
About Tiny Worlds
What are Tiny Worlds magnetic play sets?
Tiny Worlds are themed sets of beautifully illustrated EVA foam magnets designed to spark storytelling, creativity and open-ended play. Each set gives little imaginations a world of possibilities, whether they’re baking something delicious, exploring iconic Aotearoa or getting busy on a building site.
Which Tiny World should we start with?
There’s no wrong place to begin! Choose the world that best matches your child’s current interests. Tiny Kiwi celebrates the familiar icons, food and animals of Aotearoa New Zealand. Tiny Baker is filled with playful baking favourites, while Tiny Builder features tools and construction gear for busy little builders. The sets can also be mixed together, so a kiwi might visit the bakery or a wooden spoon might become the newest tool on the building site. In a Tiny World, anything is possible.
Can I combine different Tiny Worlds sets?
Absolutely, we encourage it! Each set has its own theme, but the real magic happens when worlds begin to mix and children can dream up stories we never would have imagined. The more worlds you collect, the bigger the possibilities become.
Play and Learning
How do Tiny Worlds support learning through play?
As children arrange their magnets, invent scenes and tell stories, they’re also building valuable skills. Magnetic play can support fine motor development, language, vocabulary, sorting, sequencing, storytelling, problem-solving and creativity - all while simply feeling like play.
Are Tiny Worlds open-ended toys?
Yes! There is no single right way to play. Children can name and sort the pieces, recreate familiar experiences, invent stories or combine different sets to create a world entirely of their own. The same magnets can inspire something new every time they come out.
Are Tiny Worlds Montessori-friendly?
Tiny Worlds complement many Montessori-inspired play principles, including child-led exploration, hands-on learning, familiar real-world themes and open-ended play. They are not an official Montessori material, but they can be a lovely addition to a thoughtfully prepared play space.
What age are Tiny Worlds suitable for?
Tiny Worlds are designed for children aged 3 years and over.
Materials and Safety
What are the magnets made from?
Each piece is made from lightweight 5mm thick EVA foam with a printed face and a thin, flexible magnetic backing. The soft, chunky construction makes the pieces comfortable for little hands to grip while still feeling sturdy enough for plenty of imaginative play.
Are Tiny Worlds magnets safe?
Our pieces use a flexible magnetic backing rather than small, separate high-powered magnets. As with all children’s products, please inspect the pieces regularly, discontinue use if a piece becomes damaged, and supervise play.
Can my child chew the magnets?
Tiny Worlds are toys, not teethers, and are not designed to be chewed or placed in the mouth. If a piece becomes damaged, split or separated, please remove it from play immediately.
Where to Play
What surfaces will Tiny Worlds stick to?
Tiny Worlds will stick to many magnetic metal surfaces, including most fridges, magnetic whiteboards and steel play panels. Note that not every metal surface is magnetic. We recommend testing your chosen surface with a household magnet first.
Can we use Tiny Worlds while travelling?
Yes! Their lightweight, compact design makes Tiny Worlds easy to take along for holidays, café visits and time with the grandparents. Simply bring a suitable magnetic surface or metal tray and let your child’s imagination travel too. Our Tiny Worlds storage tins are a great addition to make Tiny Worlds magnetic play sets travel friendly.
Care and Storage
How should I clean the magnets?
Gently wipe the surface with a soft, slightly damp cloth, then allow the magnets to dry completely before storing them. Please do not soak or submerge the magnets, place them in the dishwasher, or use harsh cleaning products.
How should I store our Tiny Worlds?
Keep the magnets together in their original box or add one of our Tiny Worlds storage tins to create a growing collection. Store them somewhere clean and dry, away from moisture, direct heat and prolonged sunlight.
Does the storage tin include magnets?
No. Our storage tin is sold separately as an optional add-on and does not include a magnet set. It is designed to hold your Tiny Worlds collection when travelling or between adventures and makes it easier to keep all those little pieces together.
Ordering and Delivery
Is Tiny Worlds a New Zealand business?
Yes. Tiny Worlds is a New Zealand-owned children’s brand, designed right here in Aotearoa.
Do you offer bundles?
Yes. You can purchase Tiny Worlds individually or save when you buy two or three sets together. Our bundles are a lovely way to create more storytelling possibilities, and they make extra-special gifts too.
Where do you ship?
We currently ship within New Zealand and internationally to Australia and the United Kingdom. If you're located outside these regions and are interested in making a purchase, get in touch with us at hello@tinyworlds.nz
How long will my order take to arrive?
Orders are usually packed within 2-3 business days. Once dispatched, estimated delivery is 2-5 business days. Delivery estimates may vary during busy periods.
What is your returns policy?
We want you to love your Tiny Worlds purchase. If something isn’t quite right, please read our Returns Policy or contact us at hello@tinyworlds.nz within 14 days of receiving your order and we’ll be happy to help.
Still Have a Question?
We’d love to hear from you. Send us a message through our contact page or email us at hello@tinyworlds.nz. We aim to respond to all enquiries within 1–2 business days.