Electricity and Magnetism (60+ experiments) - Thames & Kosmos

Build Circuits. Explore Magnetic Fields. Make a Morse Code Telegraph. — Thames Kosmos Electricity and Magnetism

The Thames Kosmos Electricity and Magnetism kit covers 60+ experiments across three closely related topics — electric circuits, magnetism, and electromagnetism — using colourful snap-together blocks with plug-and-socket connectors that make circuit assembly clear and error-resistant. The 60+ experiments progress from fundamental concepts (what makes a circuit complete, what materials are magnetic) through to complex applied builds: a working loudspeaker, an electromagnetic relay switch, and a Morse code telegraph key. A 64-page full-colour manual guides every experiment with assembly diagrams and explanations of the underlying physics. Ages 8+.

What the 60+ Experiments Cover

Part 1: Electric Circuits

• 💡 Build series and parallel circuits — understand the difference between circuits where components share one path vs multiple paths, and how each affects current and brightness
• 🔧 Experiment with push buttons and on-off switches — learn how switches interrupt and complete a circuit to control current flow
• ⚡ Assemble circuits with a spinning motor, two switches, and up to three light bulbs — increasingly complex builds that demonstrate how components interact in a real circuit

Part 2: Magnetism

• 🧲 Test which materials are magnetic — systematic investigation of magnetic vs non-magnetic materials
• 🧲 Explore magnetic poles and force — learn how poles attract and repel, and how magnetic force changes with distance
• ✨ Magnetise a metal — use an existing magnet to induce magnetism in an unmagnetised metal object
• 🌪️ Make invisible magnetic fields visible — use iron filings to reveal the shape of magnetic field lines around a magnet; one of the most visually striking experiments in the kit
• 🦭 Investigate magnetic force and direction with a magnetic pendulum device
• 🧭 Learn how a compass works and investigate Earth’s magnetic field

Part 3: Electromagnetism — Putting It All Together

• 🦞 Conduct experiments with a sturdy electromagnet — discover how electricity creates magnetism and how the strength of an electromagnet changes with current
• 🔊 Build a working loudspeaker — assemble the components that convert electrical signals into sound; children hear the direct output of their own circuit
• ⚡ Construct an electromagnetic relay switch — a switch that uses electromagnetism rather than direct physical contact to open or close a circuit; the principle behind countless industrial and electronic applications
• 📟 Build a Morse code telegraph key — a working device that uses a simple circuit to send coded signals; the final build that brings together circuits, switches, and electromagnetism in a single functional instrument

Watch It in Action

About the Snap-Together Blocks

The electrical components are designed as brightly coloured blocks with unique shapes and simple plug-and-socket connectors. Each block has a distinct colour and form that corresponds to its function — making it easy to follow the assembly diagrams in the manual without needing to identify components by text labels or tiny markings. Connections are made by pressing blocks together rather than threading wires or using clips, which means children can assemble and reassemble circuits quickly and without frustration. The block system also makes it visually obvious when a circuit is incomplete or incorrectly assembled — a deliberate design choice that helps children understand circuit logic rather than just following steps.

Good to Know Before You Buy

• Recommended age: 8+
• Brand: Thames Kosmos
• Experiments: 60+
• Topics: Electric circuits, magnetism, electromagnetism
• Final builds: Loudspeaker, electromagnetic relay switch, Morse code telegraph key
• Components: Snap-together colourful blocks with plug-and-socket connectors
• Manual: 64-page full-colour illustrated experiment guide
• Batteries: Required (check packaging for type)

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is this best for?

Recommended from age 8. The early experiments (completing a simple circuit, testing magnetic materials) are accessible to children aged 8–10 with adult involvement. The later electromagnetism experiments and final builds — particularly the relay switch and Morse code telegraph — will engage children aged 10–14 who are ready for more complex multi-step assembly and concept-heavy manual reading. A strong kit for children who are curious about how electrical devices work.

Does it need batteries?

Yes — the circuit experiments require batteries to power the electrical components. Check the product packaging for the battery type and quantity required. Batteries are not included.

Is it a good gift?

Yes — it’s a standout gift for children aged 8 and up who are curious about electricity, electronics, or how devices work. The 60+ experiment scope provides genuine long-term value across many sessions, and the progression from basic circuits to working instruments (loudspeaker, telegraph) means children who work through the full kit arrive at something genuinely impressive. A strong gift for children who ask how things like speakers or switches work, or who are starting to develop an interest in electronics or physics.