Maisy's Surprise Birthday Party
#5 of 105 in Maisy Series
on Goodreads (81)
What’s inside...
An extra-special First Experiences book to celebrate 30 years of Maisy! Today is Maisy's birthday, hip-hip-hooray! She dresses up in her favorite outfit and eats a yummy breakfast, but notices there are no cards from any of her friends. Worried they've forgotten her special day, Maisy is in for a big surprise when her friends throw her a special surprise party. Join Maisy as she enjoys party games, a scrumptious feast, opens her cards and presents, and makes a special wish while blowing out the candles on her cake. This book is perfect for teaching little ones about birthday traditions and is a celebratory addition to the bestselling First Experiences range.
Discussion points
What do you think Maisy felt when she saw the surprise her friends planned?
How did Maisy’s friends work together to organize the party?
If you were at Maisy's party, what gift would you bring for her and why?
How do you think the party would have been different if it was outside rather than inside?
What are some ways you can surprise your friends on their special days?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about surprises, both giving and receiving.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and how Maisy’s friends collaborated to plan the party, asking your child about times they’ve worked as part of a team.
Use the different party elements in the story, like decorations or games, to brainstorm ideas for planning a small event or playdate together.
After reading, facilitate a small role-play where your child can pretend organizing a surprise for a family member, enhancing their empathy and planning skills.
Incorporate drawing or crafting where your child can create a birthday card or a simple gift, tying it back to the story’s theme of gift-giving.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: In 'Maisy's Surprise Birthday Party,' the story revolves around Maisy's friends planning a surprise party for her. This demonstrates the value of friendship and celebrating important moments together.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and nurture their friendships, understanding the joy and support friends can offer in their lives.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: The excitement of Maisy's friends as they prepare the party shows how giving can be as rewarding as receiving. They work together to make the day special for Maisy, highlighting the happiness that comes from making others happy.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to think of ways to make others happy, not just on special occasions but in everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Planning and teamwork
Explanation: The organization of the surprise party requires coordination and cooperation among Maisy’s friends. This part of the story showcases how effective teamwork can lead to successful outcomes.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply these skills in group projects at school or in coordinating a simple event at home, learning the importance of working together and sharing responsibilities.
Example Lesson: The element of surprise
Explanation: Keeping the party a secret until the right moment teaches children the value of surprise and how timing plays a crucial role in delivering it.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of timing and discretion, understanding that sometimes waiting for the right moment can make an experience even more joyful and memorable.
Example Lesson: Expressing and receiving gratitude
Explanation: Maisy's reaction to the surprise and her appreciation towards her friends' efforts highlight the importance of expressing gratitude.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand the importance of saying 'thank you' and showing appreciation for the kindness others show them, fostering an attitude of gratitude in daily life.