A Fairy in a Dairy
What’s inside...
Buttermilk Hollow is facing the threat of being overtaken by big business, prompting residents to consider selling their land. Farmer Blue expresses a wish for a fairy godmother to his cow, Pixie. Miraculously, dairy products begin appearing in unexpected places, leading to the disappearance of 'For Sale' signs and joyful celebration among the townspeople. The identity of the fairy godmother remains a mystery, as the town revels in the magical bovine influence depicted in this charming picture book with vibrant illustrations and a surprising ending.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
29 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the fairy felt when she was trying to help the animals in the dairy? Can you think of a time you helped someone?
What do you think makes the fairy's magic special? If you had magic, how would you use it to help others?
Why do you think teamwork is important in the story? Can you share an experience where you worked with others to solve a problem?
What did you learn from the fairy about caring for animals? How can we show kindness to animals every day?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a personal story of helping someone and encourage your child to do the same. Relating personal experiences can make the themes in the book more relatable.
Ask your child to imagine having magical powers like the fairy. Discuss the responsibilities that come with such powers and how they can be used for good, aligning with the book's themes of kindness and help.
Highlight the importance of teamwork as illustrated in the book. Engage your child in a small team activity, like building a puzzle together, to practically understand the value of working as a team.
Encourage empathy by discussing the care for animals shown in the book. Plan a family visit to a local farm or animal shelter to deepen the connection with the book’s message.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Helping others brings happiness.
Explanation: In 'A Fairy in a Dairy,' the dairy fairy helps the townspeople solve their problems, which makes her feel fulfilled and happy.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of assisting others in their community, understanding that their actions can positively impact others' lives and increase their own happiness.
Example Lesson: Creativity solves problems.
Explanation: The dairy fairy uses her unique magical abilities to come up with creative solutions, ensuring the town’s dairy production thrives.
Real-World Application: Children can apply creativity in problem-solving during play or in school projects, learning to think outside the box and find innovative solutions.
Example Lesson: Teamwork is crucial for success.
Explanation: Throughout the book, the fairy collaborates with the townspeople, which emphasizes the importance of working together to achieve community goals.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of participating in team activities and valuing each member's contribution, whether in sports, classroom settings, or family tasks.
Example Lesson: Persistence in facing challenges.
Explanation: The fairy faces several obstacles in helping the dairy town but perseveres to find solutions.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of determination and resilience in overcoming personal challenges, whether in their academic tasks or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Encouraging eco-friendly practices.
Explanation: The fairy promotes sustainable methods in dairy production in the town, underscoring the importance of environmental stewardship.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to adopt and advocate for green practices at home, like recycling or conserving water, fostering an early sense of responsibility towards the environment.